Action/Abstraction Redefined: Modern Native Art, 1940s to 1970s”

Action/Abstraction Redefined is the first major traveling exhibition that analyzes modern Native American art from the mid-1940s through the 1970s. The work, inspired by abstract expressionism, color field, and hard-edge painting, was created by leading artists including George Morrison, Fritz Scholder, and T.C. Cannon.

A preview of the exhibit will be offered Friday, Sept. 29, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., as part of the 2023 homecoming festivities.

An opening reception will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 3, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.  After the reception, a lecture in Tapper Recital Hall will be given by guest speakers Manuela Well-Off-Man and Tatiana Lomahaftewa-Singer, chief curator and curator of collections, respectively, of the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts. Both worked on the curation team for the exhibition.

On Tuesday, Nov. 7, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., a reception will be held for two Native American artists. After the reception, Chris Pappan and Debra Yepa-Pappan, co-founders of the Center for Native Futures and graduates of the AIAIA, will discuss the historical importance and contemporary significance of the IAIA’s educational programs in supporting Native American artists in the 20th and 21st century.

The Center will also host two family days in conjunction with “Action/Abstraction.” On Saturday, Oct. 14, and Saturday, Nov. 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days, activities for visitors of all ages will include arts and crafts, live music and storytelling. Refreshments will be served.

Schingoethe Director Natasha Ritsma said. “Action/Abstraction is the first major traveling exhibition to analyze modern Native American art from the mid-1940s through the 1970s.”

Support for this exhibition is provided by Art Bridges.