Lumbee Woman Curates Expansive NC Museum of Art Native Culture Exhibit
The art and culture of Native American populations is remarkable, and a new exhibit at the North Carolina Museum of Art, curated by a Lumbee woman, is celebrating that.
“To Take Shape and Meaning: Form and Design in Contemporary American Indian Art” is a groundbreaking exhibition at the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) that celebrates the rich diversity and creativity of Indigenous artists from across the United States and Canada. This exciting event was organized by guest curator Nancy Strickland Fields (Lumbee), and the exhibition features works by 75 artists from over 50 tribes, showcasing a wide range of mediums and artistic expressions.
“For thousands of years, Native artists have manipulated their materials into fantastic expressions of art. The contemporary artists featured in the show are among the most acclaimed in their genres and are credited with pushing their art forms in ways that retain meaning and continue to evolve culture.” —Nancy Strickland Fields, Guest Curator
The exhibition is a testament to the enduring elements of form and design in American Indian art, highlighting both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary interpretations. Visitors are treated to a visually stunning display of three-dimensional artworks, including baskets made of blown glass, cars transformed into sculptural pieces, and cutting-edge fashion ensembles adorned with intricate beadwork and feathers. One of the standout, must see pieces is Rose B. Simpson’s “Maria,” a 1985 Chevy El Camino reimagined as a monumental interpretation of a traditional Maria Martinez black-on-black pot. This work exemplifies the exhibition’s theme of blending traditional beliefs with contemporary materials and techniques, creating a powerful dialogue between past and present. Frankly, it is cool as all get out.
Significance and Impact of Native Culture in Art
Beyond its artistic merits, “To Take Shape and Meaning” holds significant cultural and historical importance. It represents the NCMA’s most extensive showcase of Native American contemporary art since 1989, underscoring the museum’s commitment to presenting diverse and inclusive narratives. The exhibition also serves as a platform for Indigenous artists to share their stories, perspectives, and cultural heritage with a wider audience. Through the intricate details, innovative materials, and thoughtful curation, “To Take Shape and Meaning” invites visitors to engage with Indigenous worldviews, experiences, and traditions in a profound and meaningful way. It challenges preconceived notions and encourages a deeper appreciation for the continuity and evolution of Native arts in contemporary society.
Overall, this exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of American Indian art and culture. It celebrates the resilience, creativity, and artistic excellence of Indigenous communities while fostering greater understanding and appreciation for their enduring contributions to the artistic landscape.
“To Take Shape and Meaning” is a triumph, a long-overdue recognition of the enduring legacy of Native arts and their vital role in shaping the cultural landscape of this land. It is a call to embrace the multiplicity of Indigenous voices, to listen, to learn, and to celebrate the beauty and power of their stories.
The event is free for museum members, however non-member tickets can be purchased here. The exhibition will be on display until July 28th.
