Overview
With a generous grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., the Richard Pohrt Jr. Collection was acquired by the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art in 2018. This collection is a treasure that underscores the artistic and innovative brilliance of Indigenous artists and makers who were shaped by the landscape of the Great Lakes region. As stewards of the Richard Pohrt Jr. Collection, along with the entire Native American collection housed at the Eiteljorg, we support the perpetuation of supporting the descendants of the makers in creating space for Indigenous artist and culture bearers to share their stories and talents while being in community with each other. Niibidoon “Weave It” 2026 Great Lakes Art Convening is a gathering centered around the traditional weaving practices of the Indigenous peoples of the Great Lakes and a time to be in the company of our relatives as they are not merely objects but vessels of gikendaasowin (knowledge) that remain at the heart of Anishinaabe Indendamowin (ways of living). These relatives represent the resilience, brilliance, and power of our Ancestors and are a testimony of the dynamic talent and creativity that they possessed.
Invited Artists
Jennifer Adams, Ho-Chunk
Rosemary Bear, Meskwaki
Jennie Brown, Potawatomi
Jamie Chapman, Potawatomi
Renee Wasson Dillard, Odawa
Jeff Harper, Ojibwe
Michelle Marion, Ojibwe
Jared Nally, Miami
Ashley Ahusgaj Shawanda, Ho-Chunk
Noodin Niimebin Shawanda, Odawa, Ojibwe, Cree
Miigwaans Smith, Odawa, Ojibwe
Stephanie Snow, Meskwaki
Candi Wesaw, Potawatomi
September 17 & 18 is reserved for visitors from the tribal community
September 19 Open to the Public
Invited Artist Panel – 11:00 AM – 12 Noon
Invited Artist Demonstrations – 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM