Angela Decker Capstone

Stroud Cloth: The Trade Fabric of the Plains -  Angela Decker

curated cultural object installation

Artist Statement:

Stroud Cloth: The Trade Fabric of the Plains tells the story of Stroud cloth – a wool textile that served as a valuable trade item from the 18th -20th century. Large shipments of this fabric traveled from mills in England to trading posts on the Great Plains where it would be exchanged for buffalo robes, furs, and other goods. This display features a wide variety of items from Minot State University’s Native American Collection, with a focus on how the Native Americans of the upper Midwest made use of the fabric. Stroud cloth was used to make everything from blankets and bags to dresses and leggings. I worked to research, condition, and prepare each item for display, as well as building several of the mounts used in the case. This fabric had lasting economic and cultural importance, which I am excited to share through this exhibition.

Biography: 

Angela Decker was born and raised in Williston, North Dakota. She graduated with honors from Minot State University in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in Arts Administration. Decker has directed two art exhibitions, Curated Works: Printmaking and A Collective Work. She has also curated items from Minot State University’s Native American Collection for her capstone display Stroud Cloth: The Trade Fabric of the Plains.  In her off time, Decker enjoys making art, reading, listening to podcasts, and perfecting the 26 minute nap.