Nikki Howland

Three Sisters Rattle

Inspired by: Mixteca-Puebla Artist, Tripod Bowl

dried pumpkin gourd, wood burning and water based markers, willow and lilac branches, twine, leather, beans and dried corn

10” x 5” x 5”

2023/24

Indigenous objects and myths fascinate me which is why I chose the Tripod Bowl as my inspiration. The Native legend of the “Three Sisters” tells of Squash, Beans and Corn – gifts from the Sky God. These three vegetables were not only a nutritious source of food, it is also a successful planting technique that is still practiced today. These three plants thrive when planted together. Inside the gourd are dried beans and corn; a ceremonial object of ritual expressing the magical gift of the three sisters.

@nikkihowland