| Summary: | Norman and Louise Rose commissioned this blanket as a gift for the UWB Library. Alberta Aspen is a Tlingit (Raven of the Dog Salmon Clan). She lives in Juneau Alaska. About the Piece: Grandmothers Legacy-My Family Tree "This Button Robe wall hanging is designed and created by Alberta Aspen and represents her family tree through her mothers and grandmothers. Alberta Aspen is a Tlingit born in Angoon, Alaska. Her family is originally from the old village of Killisnoo. Alberta creates both traditional and ceremonial clothing. She also teaches regalia making classes. Tlingit Indians of Southeast Alaska are united by a clan system and social structure that is matriarchal and identifies the child as belonging to the Mother's family. There are two main divisions: the Raven and the Eagle, each with different sub-clans representing different groups of clan houses where families live. Clan identity is of fundamental importance: it is a symbolic representation of a living creature and identifies a kin group. Celebrations are an integral part of Tlingit tradition, hosting relatives and guests at certain ceremonial gatherings is regarded as a social obligation. Native dance groups also perform in parades and other community celebrations. Tlingits have for generations created ceremonial garments for these events, which are decorated with shells, beads, buttons and family crests. The most distinguished and recognizable ceremonial garment is the Button Robe made of dark wool with red borders and decorated with rows of pearl and abalone buttons surrounding the family crests. Following this tradition, this wall hanging, made of 100% wool fabric with pearl buttons, is styled as a traditional Button Robe and represents the artist's family tree. The main crest design represents the Dog Salmon Clan, surrounded by the Raven border design. This family tree represents the artist's Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmothers." Alberta may be reached through e-mail at ajaspen@alaska.net. Information Provided by the Artist. This is the second of two pieces by Alberta Aspen donated to the UWB Library by Norman and Louise Rose. The first, a collaboration with Michael Beasley, is a button robe.
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