WITHOUT A THEME

For those who are unaware, the contemporary art industry is not an easy one to be in for indigenous artists. Many of the materials used in our traditional culture are materials that are regulated in the contemporary art industry. Which makes it harder for many artist to exhibit their work in many galleries. We cannot continue to comprise who we are just to fit into a society that believes we no longer exist. I commend each and every artist that continues apply for exhibitions. Of course it's a challenge;  however, it is a challenge that will create change. The more and more galleries that exhibit such work are will become leaders in the industry and sooner or later the industry will begin to changes how they regulate contemporary art.

This Friday March 31, 2017 will be the opening of the "Without A Theme" a Contemporary Art Exhibition at the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center. The exhibit will remain open until November 2, 2017.

The immersive display features 20 vibrant, large-format installations from 7 Premier indigenous artist. Below are the featured artist:

Jeff Kahm 

Bob Haozous

Allan Houser 

Courtney M. Lenoard 

Issac Dial 

Russel Frye

Joe Feddersen 

What will take place on Friday is a preview reception, artist conversation, and VIP dinner. I am so honored to be able to assist my friend Tahnee Growingthunder who is an indigenous woman, Museologist. and curator for this Contemporary Art Exhibit in the Mashantucket Galley. 

So many times we are tokenized as indigenous people no matter what arena we sit in. It's time we are viewed as humans who balance our culture with today's society.

"Earth Dialogue" By: Bob Haozous 

Tahnee educated me on who these artist were. She mentioned that Bob Haozous was not only Allan Houser's son but he designed the Seattle Seahawks stadium landmark. When I look at this photo I see beautiful contemporary public art. Many times when we as indigenous people are asked to do something we are tokenized by having to do it in a way that it fits the stereotype of what we have been thought of to be. It's even more beautiful to me to see work that one would't be able to determine whether the artist was indigenous or not. 

Art courtesy of Courtney M. Leonard,
"Breach, #2 (2105), Glazed Ceramics on Wood Pallet

My fellow Shinnecock Tribal member Courtney Leonard is also a featured contemporary artist. Her mother Michelle Leonard and my mother Esther Bullock sat on the same board for the Delaware Valley Indian Association. Courtney is much older than me so because I was closer in age with her sister, we were closer. I always remember Courtney studying and working hard in her artwork. Of course being from the same tribe we are in communication with one another and follow each other's work. I have followed the different galleries she has been featured in. When I seen the list of the artist for "Without A Theme" I was so excited to see her name. 

"Without a Theme is an important concept behind this incredible contemporary college," said Tahnee Ahtoneharjo-Growingthunder, curator, Pequot Museum. "We strategically immerse visitors in large, vibrant, installations - letting the purpose, message and emotion of each piece move the individual. This is in mindful contrast to popular Native exhibits in which emphasis is placed on the artist's heritage, or on visual theme that don't necessarily convey modern Native Life. Our focus on color and composition - rather than theme - allow the artists' connections to their community and their purpose to speak for itself."  

I am looking forward to the energy of this opening! If you would like to attend, IT'S FREE!!!!!

CLICK HERE TO RSVP 

Plus I am throwing an after-party at the High Rollers Foxwoods