Museum Displays American Indian Baskets

“Beauty in Necessity” Exhibit Continues Through May 11

Baskets have been a necessary part of the daily lives of many American Indian tribes for centuries. The “Beauty in Necessity: American Indian Baskets of the West” exhibit currently open at the Clark County Museum, 1830 S. Boulder Highway, displays the art of basketry through May 11.

The baskets were made to serve several purposes including food gathering, cooking, carrying infants and for use during ceremonies. Mothers and grandmothers passed on the knowledge of the techniques and designs to the younger generations to carry on.

Today, basket weaving continues for many of the same reasons, but more commonly it is used as a expression and link to the weaver’s culture, heritage and history.

“Beauty in Necessity: American Indian Baskets of the West” highlights baskets, old and new, from the Southwest and Western regions of the United States and shows a wide diversity in materials and designs. Many of the featured baskets were collected in the early 1900s by pioneer Southern Nevadans such as Owen Pauff, the Kiel and George families and Anna Parks.

Text panels explain weaving techniques, plants, types and changes made over the last 100 years. A “hands-on” table will allow visitors to weave a basket of their own.

The Clark County Museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is $1.50 for adults and $1 for children and seniors. Those interested can call 455-7955 or visit the Web site at www.accessclarkcounty.com/parks. 

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