Living in the Present: Indigenous / Native Fashion Art Show featuring Kehala Smith and Dayesla Ixtli

About this event

Embark on a captivating journey through time with Living in the Present: Indigenous / Native Fashion Art Show honoring Indigenous People’s Month. This unique event will explore the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous nations across the Americas, showcasing designs and an exhibition that honors the past, while living in the present. Honoring those who came before us and the ones Living in the Present through the drums, the event will open with a drumming ceremony by the Red Blanket Singers, hosted by Chief Urie of the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape. The fashion journey begins by honoring the rich heritage of our local communities, featuring the Delaware Nanticoke Indian and New Jersey Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Tribal Nations, honoring the stories woven into their regalia and the spirit of the Fancy Shawl Dance. We then celebrate designer Dayesla Ixtli’s Matlatzinca and Mexica-Nahuatl ancestral roots through her exquisite artistry that comes to life in our present. The show culminates in the stunning elegance of designs by Kehala Smith, of the Tuscarora Nation Turtle Clan lineage. We invite all attendees to visit this events companion exhibition Living in the Present, featuring artwork by Indigenous and Native artist from across the Americas. The exhibition is on view from November 4-30, 2026. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of Indigenous culture through the art and fashion. Featured Indigenous Designers Left to right: Kehala Smith. Photo by Taylre Media. Dayesla Ixtli. Photo by Mauel Flores of Dream Arts Studio. Kehala Smith Founder & Designer | Kreations by Kehala Tuscarora Nation • Turtle Clan Fashion is more than clothing; it’s storytelling. Kehala Smith is an Indigenous fashion designer, artist, entrepreneur, and proud mother whose creations celebrate the beauty, resilience, and living traditions of the Haudenosaunee. Through Kreations by Kehala, she transforms beadwork, quillwork, leatherwork, and contemporary design into one-of-a-kind wearable art that…

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