Contemporary Natives OpenWalls for Art

Monica Whitepigeon in Entertainment. Discussion »

CHICAGO – OpenWalls Presents "Contemporary American Indian Artists Continue A Traditional Story" running from April 20th until June 8th at Alderman Ameya Pawar office. Various contemporary Native artists of the 47th Ward celebrated the opening of the art exhibit last Friday evening.

April 20 - June 8

Curated by the American Indian Center of Chicago, the exhibit showcases more than twenty pieces by ten Native artists. The pieces featured traditional Native imagery that included beadwork and tapestry paintings as well as more modern, digitalized photography that incorporate both Native and non-Native themes.

The gala was informal but very welcoming to all, from young children to mature adults. Appetizers and fried bread were also served, courtesy of the American Indian Center. Guests were able to meet with most of the artists and mingle with other Natives and non-Natives alike.

Among the artists present were Joe Yazzie, Navajo, who featured bronze statues, Eli Suzukovich, Cree/Serbian, who showcased multimedia illustrations, and Debra Yepa-Pappan, Jemez Pueblo/Korean, who presented exceptional photo manipulated pieces. Also, on display were works from Norma Robertson, Dakota, whose traditional works have also been displayed at both the Field Museum and the Art Institute.

OpenWalls is a program setup by Alderman Ameya Pawar's office to help support and showcase the various artists of the 47th Ward. Through bimonthly showings, they are able to highlight Native and non-Native artists alike, ranging from all ages, to give a warm sense of community to all who visit the ward office.

posted April 25, 9:50 am edt