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The tradition of storytelling is said by the Ojibway to have begun with the spirit Diibajimad, who taught a half-spirit, half-mortal being called Nanabosho. He, in turn, taught mortals. Since then it has passed from generation to generation through the memory aid of scrolls used to correctly and completely relay these narratives through an elaborate series of symbols called pictographs. The stories are utilized to teach lessons, morals, and values to children as well as to adults. This exhibit features stories scribed on birch bark scrolls as made by Ojibway traditionalist, Anthony Richard LaFromboise (Miskomin – “Raspberry”), one of only a few individuals remaining known as “Keepers of the Scrolls.” This exhibit is a significant step in the preservation and continuation of this very rare tradition.
The exhibit, produced by the North Dakota Council on
the Arts, is tailored for schools, libraries, art galleries, museums,
banks, and other community organizations. It will easily adapt into educational
programs. Educational materials that accompany the exhibit have been designed
to relate to middle school ND English, Language Arts, Theater, and Visual
Arts standards and contain interdisciplinary activities. In addition,
many of the themes of the stories featured involve issues of concern among
children and families of today such as self-esteem and loneliness. In
such cases, the narratives can serve as tools by counselors for mediating
discussions.
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