When Tom Haukaas was young, he spent hours watching the traditional dancers of his Rosebud Sioux Tribe with awe. He was impressed not only by their dancing, but also with the beauty of their elaborate costumes. He couldn’t afford to buy the garments so he decided to learn how to make them. Surrounded by family and friends who were skilled at both quilt and beadwork, Haukaas learned from the best, eventually developing his own original aesthetic.
As the Denver Art Museum's Native Arts artist-in-residence, Haukaas is bringing his skills to a new project: a ceremonial dress that combines traditional elements with contemporary ones. You can interact with Tom during the following events:
- He'll be conducting a talk about traditional and contemporary Plains Indian floral beadwork at the DAM on September 10.
- Join him for an informal chat about his residency on September 11.
- He’ll be in attendance at the 26th Annual Friendship Powwow and American Indian Cultural Celebration at the DAM on September 12 (free general admission). Read our blog about how Tom contributed to the powwow t-shirt design.
The next Native Arts Artist-in-Residence is Gregg Deal, acclaimed muralist, performance artist and painter of the Pyramid Lake Paiute tribe. Learn more about opportunities to see him at work.
The Artist-in-Residence program is generously supported by The Virginia W. Hill Foundation, Colorado Creative Industries, and National Endowment for the Arts.
