Learn about artistry, tradition, and the role of self-taught art in maintaining community knowledge through the works of Haudenosaunee Fingerweaving artist Marilyn Isaacs (Tuscarora, Bear Clan) in her debut exhibition, Weaving Hands | Planting Seeds.

Used to make sashes, belts, bands, and more, Fingerweaving is a traditional textile art that plays an important role in Haudenosaunee regalia, especially when worn during traditional dances. Created without the use of a loom, different fingerweaving patterns are created through the use of a counting system to alternate and adjust the yarn order.

Isaacs taught herself fingerweaving as a young woman following a desire to have a sash of her own, and has practiced fingerweaving for over 35 years—creating intricate woven sashes, belts, and bands for herself and other members of the Haudenosaunee communities in the region. Her work was recognized with a 1st Place in Traditional Arts Award at the 2019 Hodinöhsö:ni’ Art Show at Ganondagan, and in an instructional booklet on Haudenosaunee fingerweaving communities created by Isaacs and Jenine Hillaire (Lhaq'te'mish, Lummi Nation).

Her passion for the medium as a form of artistic expression is matched by an equal passion for educating the public about Haudenosaunee Fingerweaving, and leading classes to 'plant the seeds' of creativity in others, so the tradition may be kept going for future generations.

Weaving Hands | Planting Seeds is made possible in part by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and Niagara University.

Exhibition Catalog