Idaho Historical Museum - Refugee Exhibit

The Comforts of Home: Crafting a New Life in the Treasure Valley

March 20 to May 2, 2010

Note:  More information will be posted in early March.

Boise's cultural landscape is changing rapidly, as refugees arrive here from around the world to begin life anew. A new exhibition, The Comforts of Home: Crafting a New Life in the Treasure Valley, celebrates the beauty of refugee artistic traditions that are enriching our community and explores the vital role of cultural heritage and artistic expression in adapting to a new home. In the exhibition, a series of rooms will be furnished with items created by master traditional artists who have made Boise their home. Folk arts such as Somali Bantu embroidery, Bosnian crocheted lace, Bhutanese knitted garments, Burundi hand-tailored clothing and basketry, Burmese woven apparel, and Afghani fabric design speak to each culture's uniqueness, as well as our common humanity. The exhibition is prepared by the Idaho Commission on the Arts' Folk and Traditional Arts Program, in collaboration with the Idaho State Historical Museum and the Idaho Office for Refugees. The Comforts of Home is funded in part by the Idaho Humanities Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the State of Idaho.