In 1865, a young beader created this design for her own moccasins and leggings. Generations later, Cydnee Shangreaux has translated her fourth great-grandmother's pattern to tell the Morning Storm story. Two borders of Morning Stars represent a long life with many winters. Steps represent a journey, with the two dots on either side signifying a good life from childhood to adulthood. Thunderbirds serve as messengers along the way, carrying songs through the storm.
A portion of the proceeds from the "Morning Sky" Blanket sales will go to the American Indian College Fund, a nonprofit organization that helps fund scholarships for Native American students and tribal colleges. Your purchase helps support their honorable mission.
- 32" x 44"
- Napped; fabric is combed for a softer, thicker feel
- Felt binding or Whipstitch binding or Ultrasuede® binding
- Pure virgin wool/cotton
- Fabric woven in our American mills
- Dry clean
- Made in USA
About the artist:
Cydnee Shangreaux (Oglala Sioux) is a beadwork artist who was inspired to preserve her family's bead patterns by the passing of several older relatives. "Morning Sky" was created by her great-great-great-great-grandmother, Selena Marshall, for her own moccasins and leggings. These were passed down through the maternal line until they reached Cydnee. Cydnee is a resident of Pine Ridge, South Dakota, and student at Oglala Lakota College studying Office Technology. "As the first grandchild to be interested in these family patterns, I use my art to tell stories of my life, family, and the places I enjoy."
