The Eastern Shoshone and Arapaho powwow that was held in June of 2016 was a wonderful event full of dancing, singing and ceremony that showed just how proud the participants are of their culture and history. They were more than willing to answer questions about their tribal history and other activities that were being presented. This was a spectacular event and I am more than grateful for their kindness and friendship and I thank them for it. Below is a series of portraits of various participants who attended the event and I will let the images speak for themselves with the minimum amount of comment, other than to say what an honor it is to be able to join and observe this important part of their lives.
Readying himself to lead the honor guard into the Grand Entry
Dancing in all of her finery
A proud warrior ready to enter the circle
Experience shows
A proud young warrior
Observing the activity
The dance is all important as he puts his heart and soul into it
Calm and serene she makes the circle
Watching and listening
Modern and traditional, the two meld perfectly
A young face and a great smile
Women, the heart of a nation, dancing
The dancing goes on late into the night
These eyes have seen many dances
Beads, feathers, pride in culture all represented here in its finest
Seeing into the past, looking forward to the future
Confidence shows why elders are respected
Beautiful bead-work on a proud woman
A strong portrait of a man secure in his culture
It is always a time for reflection when you are in the circle
These portraits barely scratch the surface of the many participants of this powwow. In the future we will be posting more images of these wonderful people. Check back often for updates.