Kaya™, An American Girl® February 28, 2009

EITELJORG MUSEUM CELEBRATES KAYA™, AN AMERICAN GIRL®
Rosa Yearout (Nez Perce) will be featured artist in residence
(Indianapolis) – Children will celebrate the Nez Perce culture of the nationally-renowned American Girldoll, Kaya, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Eiteljorg Museum’s program, “Welcome Kaya,” a celebration of the Native American character and doll. The museum will also welcome artist-in-residence, Rosa Yearout, a Nez Perce storyteller and consultant on the Kaya storybooks.
“This event provides a great opportunity to bring the entire family out for an enjoyable and creative learning experience,” says Martha Hill, vice president for public programs.
Children are encouraged to bring their dolls and visit the museum for a day of storytelling, games and activities inspired by Kaya and her Nez Perce culture. Participants can enjoy facilitated activities designed for boys and girls, including bead drilling, and creating their own stick dice game. They can also learn more about Kaya’s people through games, stories and gallery experiences. Three lucky visitors will win their very own Kaya, American Girl, doll.
The day will include storytelling with Yearout, who consulted with Pleasant Company, makers of American Girl products, as they worked to develop the Kaya character. She will discuss different cultural artifacts; arts and crafts; tribal dances and music; health and healing; and the environment.
All activities are free with museum admission. Scouts, earn your Scouting the West Patch or art, history or culture rocker with this program. Children are not required to bring a doll. For more information, visit www.eiteljorg.org.
The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art is celebrating its 20th year of inspiring appreciation and understanding of the art, history and cultures of the American West and the indigenous peoples of North America. The museum, which opened in 1989, is located in Downtown Indianapolis’ White River State Park. For general information about the museum and to learn more about exhibits and events, call (317) 636-WEST (9378) or visit www.eiteljorg.org.