:: CULTURAL PROGRAMS ::
In the past, the Ndakinna Education Center has received New York State Council of the Arts (NYSCA) grants in support of our Cultural Programming.
>> Native American Programming
Native Am
Storytelling is an essential part of Ndakinna programming. Through the telling of Native legends people of all ages can be taught valuable lessons and be amused at the same time. These legends, combined with traditional drum songs and explanation of various native philosophies and the traditions they contain, can help give people a better understanding of native culture. They also offer refreshing new perspectives of our relationship with each other and the rest of creation. Besides members of the Bruchac family, Ndakinna features guest storytellers throughout the year.
Native American History & The Use of Natural Resources
Focusing on such resources as plants, trees, rocks, animals, water to the soil beneath your feet, with the help of Ndakinna’s many exhibits, instructors provide physical evidence as to how Native Americans shaped these key resources into everything they needed to survive. Along with showing such objects as deerskin clothing, furs, birch bark canoes, snowshoes, wampum, baskets and hunting tools instructors also explain the ways this original reliance on the natural world helped shape the many Native legends, cultural values and social interactions that continue to this day
Native American Folk Arts Presentations
Throughout the year, Ndakinna promotes a variety of Native American Folk Arts presentations during various festivals and special events. Past presentations include traditional bow making and hunting craft, pottery and basketry, clothing and traditional accessories, and musical instruments.
Native American Games
Join in Native American games of skill, chance and observation. Drawing from Jim Bruchac’s book Native American Games & Stories by Fulcrum publishing, participants will learn a variety of Native games as well as their cultural significance.
Northeastern Native Stories & Music
Through out the year Ndakinna offers various musical and storytelling events. With a special emphasis on Northeastern Native themes such programs can range from evening presentations to full day workshops and festivals. See a list of our Native American presenters.
>> Adirondack Culture & Lore
Traditional Adirondack Folk Arts Presentations
Ndakinna promotes a variety of traditional Adirondack Folk Arts presentations during various festivals and special events. Past presentations include split ash basketry and camp craft.
Adirondack Stories & Music
Throughout the year Ndakinna offers various musical and storytelling events. With a special emphasis on traditional Adirondack themes such programs can range from evening presentations to full day workshops and festivals. See a list of our Adirondack cultural presenters.