A Brief History
Ribbonwork is a craft that emerged in the late 1700s when Myaamia people traded with Americans for silk ribbon. Using the silk, Miami women were able to create intricate geometric patterns.
Although the materials and methods of making the patterns were new, elements of the patterns pre-dated ribbonwork and can be found on older painted hides, tattoos, quillwork, and weaving, among other examples. Myaamia people used the ribbonwork to adorn clothing for special occasions for both men and women, especially leggings, skirts and moccasins.
Traditionally, ribbonwork would have been taught to one another by family members. While this is still considered the best way to learn a skill, it is not realistic for a community as geographically dispersed as the Myaamia.
Learn More
If you are interested in learning more about the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma and Myaamia people, please check out these resources!
Myaamia Ribbonwork
- Myaamia Ribbonwork Book Information
- Myaamia Ribbonwork Playlist on YouTube
- Peepankišaapiikahkia Eehkwaatamenki ‘Myaamia Ribbonwork’ Demonstration Video
- Myaamia Ribbonwork Exhibition at Miami University Art Museum Playlist on YouTube
- Miami University Art Museum’s Ribbonwork Exhibit Blog
Miami Tribe
- Miami Tribe of Oklahoma Website
- Myaamia Center Website
- Telling Our Story: A Living History of the Myaamia
- Aacimotaatiiyankwi: A Myaamia Community Blog
- Honoring Nations: Miami Tribe of Oklahoma video
- This video was featured in our 4th grade classroom lessons.
- Myaamia Center YouTube Channel
Myaamiaataweenki ‘Miami Language’
- Myaamia Online Dictionary
- This website was featured in our 4th grade classroom lessons.
- Myaamiaataweenki eekincikoonihkiinki eeyoonki aapisaataweenki: A Miami Language Digital Tool for Language Reclamation by Daryl Baldwin, David Costa, and Douglas Troy
Miami Tribe and Miami University Relationship
- Miami Tribe Relations Website
- Developing the Myaamia Heritage Logo Video
- This video was featured in our 4th grade classroom lessons.
Last update: November 18, 2020