First People: The Art in Artifact

A special exhibit exploring the relationship of Native American peoples with their natural environment opens at the San Bernardino County Museum on Saturday, December 9. “First People: The Art in Artifact” continues through March 30, 2007, and is free with museum general admission.

“First People” features images and artifacts from the collections of the museum archives and anthropology division that focus on Native American artisans. Actual examples of weaving, pottery, basketry, jewelry, and tools will accompany photographs of people who created similar works. Modern and traditional Native American poetry provides insight into the meaning behind the artifacts.

“By combining historical images, actual artifacts, natural materials, and philosophy as expressed in Native American writing, this exhibit becomes more than objects from the museum collections,” said Adella Schroth, curator of anthropology. “Through ‘First People’ we are exploring ‘gaia’ — the idea of Earth as a single living organism. This concept is being explored today as a scientific theory, but the idea has existed in many cultures throughout time.”

The San Bernardino County Museum is at the California Street exit from Interstate 10 in Redlands. The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays and holiday Mondays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $6 (adult), $5 (student or senior), and $4 (child aged 5 to 12). Children under five and Museum Association members are admitted free. Parking is free. For more information, visit www.sbcountymuseum.org.

The museum is accessible to persons with disabilities. If assistive listening devices or other auxiliary aids are needed in order to participate in museum exhibits or programs, requests should be made through Museum Visitor Services at least three business days prior to your visit. Visitor Services’ telephone number is 909-307-2669 ext. 229 or (TDD) 909-792-1462.