Iowa Public Television

Faces of Culture/Revised

New Orleans Black Indians: A Case Study in the Arts (#223)

This documentary examines the Black Indian tribes of New Orleans and their Mardi Gras celebration which began in the 1880's. It describes the origins of the tribes as well as Mardi Gras, and focuses on the distinctive folk art features of the celebration -- including the songs, dances and particularly the elaborate costumes --which hold great social significance are a form of artistic expression for the Black Indians. The program includes comments by several of the participants in which they express the historic symbolism and intense relationships expressed in the celebration.

Education Record Rights: Record and retain for from each broadcast. No duplication allowed.

This episode has not aired in the past few months on Iowa Public Television.