From Hide to Rattle: Tradition & Craft with Brenda Mercer

Saturday, October 17, 12:00-3:00pm in the Heritage Gallery Saturday, November 14, 12:00-3:00pm in the Heritage Gallery Join Indigenous artist-storyteller Brenda Mercer for a hands-on workshop inside Hidebound, the Esplanade’s current exhibition curated by Tom Hulit exploring the long history of leather and leatherworking. Beginning with a smudge, Brenda will introduce participants to the tradition and process of Indigenous rattle making, sharing examples of rattles and demonstrating how different materials can create unique sounds. Participants will create their own rattle using prepared deer hide, a wooden handle, and sand, with the opportunity to explore decorative materials such as beads, fringe, feathers, and leather. Tom will also share examples of rattles from the Esplanade’s collection, connecting the workshop to the history and material culture explored in the exhibition. Your rattle will be formed during the workshop and taken home to dry, with instructions and materials provi