A Voice from the Eastern Door
A Voice from the Eastern Door
Etching of bear clan symbols have been used on the strap leather to create a custom look
Using magnets Ian created a fan that can be split in two halves and quickly brought back together during a smoke dance competition
Fans can be designed so that the beaded handles can be interchanged easily with different beadwork patterns
Ian redid the leather and added beadwork to the bottom of a fan
Ian used Macaw feathers to add color creating a unique look
Ian Clute is a local artisan who operates on private commissions, often by referrals for events like the annual Powwow and Midwinter Ceremonies. His craft includes making beautiful Kastowa’s for all ages from young boys to men’s. Using strap leather for the base instead of splint as is custom, Ian has made kastowas for boys that can be adjusted as they grow. Innovative in his technique, Ian has shown a willingness to try out many ideas offered by his clientele to help make sure that whatever he creates is what they are looking for.
Ian has also worked to refurbish old fans by reapplying the leather to handles or completely changing out handles if the client wants to keep the feathers. Using thread work Ian has managed to update the look of these older fans as well. He has also completely taken apart and recreated kastowas using the original material incase a child has outgrown theirs.
Ian has been working on his craft for the past 10 years, having learned his leatherwork from his grandfather Myron Clute. His beading was a skill taught to him by his mother Lori Benedict. Ian has created many fans for smoke dancers gearing up for the powwow trail, matching the intricate bead and feather work to dancers outfits. Ian Clute is another prime example of the transfer of cultural knowledge across three generations.
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