Emma E. Amiotte facts for kids

Emma E. Amiotte (1913 - 1997) was a talented Oglala Lakota artist. She was known for creating amazing miniature models and for her dedication to her community.

About Emma Amiotte

Emma Amiotte was born in Manderson, South Dakota. This was on April 25, either in 1913 or 1914. She was adopted by Maggie Red Bear. Emma was also the aunt of Arthur Amiotte, who became a famous Lakota artist too.

In the 1940s or 1950s, Emma worked as a housekeeper. She lived with the Wilkins family. They lived in a special house called the Black Hills Model Home. This home is now on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's an important historical building. Emma is one of two well-known people who lived there.

Emma also worked at The Tipi Shop. This shop was inside the Sioux Indian Museum. It sold beautiful arts and crafts made by Native Americans. Emma and other women helped raise money through the shop. They helped build a new Sioux Indian Museum in 2016.

Emma Amiotte passed away on August 16, 1997. She died in Gillette, Wyoming. She was buried in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Emma's Art

Emma Amiotte was a miniaturist. This means she made very small, detailed models. She created tiny replica dolls and tipis. She also made miniature horses and sweat lodges. Her art often showed scenes of tribal life.

Emma used traditional materials for her artwork. These included quills, feathers, bones, and animal skins. Her beautiful dolls are now part of the permanent collection. You can see them at the South Dakota Art Museum.

In 1987, Emma Amiotte received a special honor. She was welcomed into the South Dakota Hall of Fame. This recognized her important contributions as an artist.