The Art of Making: Rediscovering the Blackfoot Legacy

The Art of Making: Rediscovering the Blackfoot Legacy offers a captivating entry into Jared Tailfeathers' journey of cultural reclamation. Accompanied by his family and loyal dogs, Tailfeathers delves into his Indigenous heritage through hands-on, land-based exploration. This groundbreaking work uncovers hidden historical sites, weaves together community ties, and fosters collaborations with scholars across various disciplines. The book is a vibrant fusion of modern artistry, music, and narrative, deeply rooted in the ancestral Blackfoot traditional methods of making.

Tailfeathers' quest began in 2019, driven by a deep desire to reacquaint himself with his cultural and historical identity as a Blackfoot individual navigating a post-colonial world. The book traces the evolution of the Blackfoot Confederacy, examining its trade routes, resources, and interactions pre- and post-1800s. It provides intricate details of Blackfoot connections with nature, neighbouring First Nations Peoples, and their rich legacy in tool-making, textiles, and artistic expression. This volume is not just a book; it's a journey into the heart of Blackfoot culture, narrated by a man who walks the ancestral trails with his dogs.