Leech Lake artist introduces fashion show in Duluth

DULUTH -- The Great Lakes Woodland Skirts Fashion Show will offer a collection of traditional skirts, including beaded accessories, that have been featured in a culturally-specific fashion show from 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 30 at Tweed Museum of Art on the University of Minnesota Duluth campus, 1201 Ordean Court in Duluth. Project director and designer Delina White, who lives on the Leech Lake Reservation, will host the program while providing a narration with projected photographs to illuminate the history of the woman's traditional skirt.

Historically, such skirts were worn particularly for special gatherings such as powwows and ceremonies. This program exhibits the vitality of Native clothing design and reinforces cultural identity through the re-emergence of the Native woman's skirt as a viable and contemporary vestment, according to a release. This project was developed by Delina White and her two daughters, Lavender Hunt and Sage Davis, to promote the appreciation and perpetuation of the cultural legacy represented by the Native skirt. Together, they are hoping that this event will provide a catalyst for women of all ages to wear their skirts in everyday situations as a way to stay connected to Mother Earth and show pride in their beauty as women, a release said.