Identity & Inspiration

Native American art is the single largest portion of the Museum’s holdings and includes a diverse array of artwork from across North America. Basketry, jewelry, paintings, pottery, and such cultural arts as clothing, moccasins, and objects used in daily and ceremonial life. This exhibit examined the motivations influencing the artists’ creative processes, from the desire to preserve tribal traditions to incorporating new materials and producing work for new audiences. Other influences include the challenge to push boundaries by generating innovative forms and designs, and incorporating movements like Pop Art and even social commentary in their pieces.