Burke Museum Exhibit Thrills Adam Roseman

I was recently visiting one of Seattle’s best places to go exploring. If you have never been, then you must run to the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture. For someone like me, Adam Roseman, who loves everything Mexican, Native American and historical, this museum is like a visit to heaven.  At the moment there is a special exhibit called “Weaving Heritage: Textile Masterpieces from Around the World.”  The museum is describing this fascinating feast for the eyes and intellect as the ‘first major exhibition of the museum’s international textile collection.’ I can tell you it was worth waiting for.

You will see wonderful textiles, including rugs,  sashes, tunics, skirts, shirts, belts, robes, kimonos, and just about anything else you can think of that can be made with woven cloth.  Included in the display are items from China, Indonesia, and all across the Americas, North and South. Of special interest to me were pieces originating from the Navajo, Hopi and native tribes of the Pacific Northwest. Go and see of yourself the wonderful world of ethnic weaving.

Native American Healing with Teacher Adam Roseman

As part of my teaching of ethnic American history, I always include a section on Native American medicine.  Most of today’s students have no familiarity with any type of medicine that isn’t of the modern and Western variety, and it’s a very eye-opening experience for them to learn about native healing practices.

We discuss botany, Native American herbs and the tribes’ spiritual approach to medicine.  My students are particularly intrigued by the herbs and ask me many questions about them.  Because of Native Americans’ close relationship with nature, many of their healting therapies emphasize the  mind-body-spirit healing potential of plants. We also discuss ritual ceremonies, therapeutic touch, energy work, prayer, music and other Native American healing modalities.  These discussions enable my students to gain an appreciation for this traditional culture.