Indianapolis, January 9, 2026
The Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis has unveiled an exhibition featuring over 90 pieces of Anishinaabe quill art, emphasizing this unique cultural heritage. The exhibition titled ‘Gaawii Eta-Go Aawizinoo Gaawiye Mkakoons: It’s Not Just A Quillbox’ runs from December 13, 2025, through March 29, 2026. It highlights the intricate craftsmanship and cultural significance of quillwork, showcasing traditional methods and preserving the language and customs of the Anishinaabe peoples.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Eiteljorg Museum Unveils Anishinaabe Quill Art Exhibition
The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art in Indianapolis has launched a new exhibition titled “Gaawii Eta-Go Aawizinoo Gaawiye Mkakoons: It’s Not Just A Quillbox”, showcasing over 90 pieces of Anishinaabe quill art. This exhibition, which opened on December 13, 2025, and runs through March 29, 2026, highlights the intricate artistry of the Great Lakes region’s Native communities.
Exhibition Details
The exhibition features a diverse collection of quillwork, including embroidered quill boxes and artworks inspired by woodland flora and fauna. These pieces are crafted using porcupine quills, sweetgrass, and birch bark, reflecting one of North America’s earliest forms of decorative art.
Significance of Quill Art
Quill art holds deep cultural importance for the Anishinaabe peoples, encompassing the Odawa, Ojibwe, and Potawatomi tribes. The exhibition emphasizes the traditional methods of creating quill boxes and their role in Anishinaabe culture, both historically and in contemporary times.
Language and Cultural Preservation
In a nod to cultural preservation, the exhibition includes bilingual panels printed in Anishinaabe language (Anishinabemowin) alongside English translations. This initiative underscores the resilience of the Anishinaabe language, which has endured despite historical challenges.
Visitor Information
The Eiteljorg Museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. For more details on visiting, please refer to the museum’s official website.
About the Eiteljorg Museum
Established in 1989, the Eiteljorg Museum is dedicated to inspiring an appreciation and understanding of the art, history, and culture of Native American and Western peoples. Located in White River State Park, Indianapolis, the museum houses an extensive collection of Native American and Western art and artifacts.
Key Features of the Exhibition
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Exhibition Title | “Gaawii Eta-Go Aawizinoo Gaawiye Mkakoons: It’s Not Just A Quillbox” |
| Duration | December 13, 2025 – March 29, 2026 |
| Location | Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, Indianapolis, Indiana |
| Number of Artworks | Over 90 pieces of Anishinaabe quill art |
| Materials Used | Porcupine quills, sweetgrass, birch bark |
| Visiting Hours | Monday–Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday: Noon – 5 p.m. |
| Admission | Included with regular museum admission |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the duration of the “Gaawii Eta-Go Aawizinoo Gaawiye Mkakoons: It’s Not Just A Quillbox” exhibition at the Eiteljorg Museum?
The exhibition opened on December 13, 2025, and runs through March 29, 2026.
What materials are used in the Anishinaabe quill art featured in the exhibition?
The quill art is crafted using porcupine quills, sweetgrass, and birch bark, reflecting one of North America’s earliest forms of decorative art.
What are the visiting hours for the Eiteljorg Museum?
The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
What is the significance of the bilingual panels in the exhibition?
The bilingual panels, printed in Anishinaabe language (Anishinabemowin) and English, underscore the resilience of the Anishinaabe language, which has endured despite historical challenges.
What is the Eiteljorg Museum’s mission?
The Eiteljorg Museum is dedicated to inspiring an appreciation and understanding of the art, history, and culture of Native American and Western peoples.
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