At Rapid City's Journey Museum, a celebration of local indigenous culture went on full display. Namely – highlighting the ties between the culture and the horse.
The museum hosted the event Saturday afternoon, and dozens came to connect with local culture and the animal so deeply intertwined with it.
James Star Comes Out designed the regalia worn by the horses in the ceremony. An artist from youth, horses have long been a theme in his work and life.
“I’ve always had this connection with the horse, so I’d always draw the horses," Star Comes Out said. "As I got older, I started connecting with that through creativity. The horses are connected with the Wakinyan Oyate which is from the west – the thunder beings – and we consider them relatives of that. The symbols are representing the lightning, the thunder nation, and the circles around his eyes are giving the horse more insight to see things that we can not see.”
That connection runs deep enough to sage the horses in the same way as a loved one or guest. Especially these horses, which serve more than just a ceremonial role.
“People call it equine therapy today, but our ancestors knew we’ve always had that connection with the horses," Star Comes Out said. "By doing that, they’re healing the people, so whatever ailments the people have the horse is taking that from them. That’s why I lit the sage to cleanse him from everything that was around and what he’s taking in.’
The event consisted of traditional music, displaying the horse in full regalia, and concluded with a handshake line between all the guests as a symbol of community.
For museum director Conor McMahon, these events put a spotlight on a rich culture that can only be found on the prairie.
“I never cease to be amazed at the skill and talent of Lakota artists," McMahon said. "Also, to see how they adapt and use different materials and preserve this rich cultural tradition while also evolving in the modern world.”
Other events at the museum included a showing of Keith BraveHeart's new film - Inspired: Horse Nation of the Oceti Sakowin and a panel discussion.