Williston’s World Nativities exhibit showcases various imaginings and designs of Christmas scene

WILLISTON, N.D. (KUMV) - CHI St. Alexius Williston President Garrick Hyde is presenting part of his collection of nativity scenes from around the world.

The public can view more than 100 displays from Africa, Asia and Latin America. Each is crafted in a local style and reflects the artist’s interpretation of the event.

Hyde began purchasing these sets as part of a humanitarian project with his family. He would then resell them and donate the proceeds to a charity benefitting that region. Over the past 20 years, he said they’ve helped 550 artisans across 56 countries.

Hyde said he wants to share their stories this Christmas season.

“A lot of these artisans are not wealthy people. They are not famous. A lot of them are people just trying to get by economically, so they will often use recyclable materials. They will use whatever means they have available to them. They get very creative in how they make something,” said Hyde.

Some of the materials include local wood, cloth and even bullets.

The exhibit is open now through Dec. 18 at CHI’s main entrance.

On weekdays it’s open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The exhibit hours on Saturday, Dec. 14, are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The hours on Sunday, Dec. 15, are from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.