Cherokee Traditions: From the Hands of our Elders
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Cherokee Traditions: From the Hands of our Elders documents a generation of craft makers whose work spanned the turn of the twentieth century. This was a period of transition, from a point when objects were produced primarily for use in the home, to a time when they were collected and admired by others far from the Qualla Boundary. In spite of such change, there was a definite continuity of tradition supported by the strength of family and community. This time demanded adaptation and inventiveness from a generation whose lives were constantly shifting in response to changes brought about by outside forces. This generation of artisans—whom we respectfully call the elders—shaped the Cherokee’s contemporary aesthetic and inspired others to follow their creative lead.


Cherokee Traditions:
A project of Hunter Library Digital Initiatives at Western Carolina University
Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual
Museum of the Cherokee Indian

With support from:
Cherokee Preservation Foundation logo Blue Ridge National Heritage Area logo