Corn Husk Weaving Workshop @ Institute for American Indian Studies
During this month of gratitude, the Institute for American Indian Studies located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut is hosting a Corn Husk Weaving Workshop on Saturday, November 23rd at 1 p.m. Participants will learn the ancient art of weaving beauty from simple corn husks into a seasonal craft perfect for gift giving.
Originating in South America, corn didn’t reach New England until about 1000 years ago. Corn was a useful crop that wasn’t grown just as a source of food. Many Native American traditions like the Three Sisters Garden, stories, and ceremonies like the Green Corn Festival encompass the cultural importance of corn including weaving art and everyday items from corn husks.
A corn husk is the outer leaf of the corn plant that protects the cob as it grows. Most of the time, this green outer shell is thrown out after corn is harvested. Readily available during the fall harvest season, skilled Native Americans artists and other artisans collect the husks and dry them until they turn an attractive shade of golden brown signaling that they are ready to be woven.
At this workshop participants will join an IAIS educator for a hands on class where they will create crafts made from corn husks to take home. Weaving with corn husks has been around for thousands of years in Native American culture and this workshop presents a rare opportunity to experience a bit of Native American culture while creating something beautiful and meaningful.
Pre-registration for this workshop is required and can be made online at iaismuseum.org. The price to participate that includes all materials, is $20 for non-members and $10 for members of the Institute. If you have questions, please call 860-868-00518 or email [email protected]
About the Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 acres of woodland, the IAIS offers educational programs, both permanent and changing exhibits, and a replicated 16th century Algonkian village. Its research department maintains and extensive archeological and ethnographic collections and conducts archeological digs and other research. Its “Wigwam Escape” escape room offers an opportunity to solve a puzzle while learning about Indigenous life before European settlement. With a focus on “two eyed seeing”, visitors can learn about the history of the American continent that incorporates the more than. 12,000-year history of human habitation. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, Connecticut.
