Native Perspectives: America 250 Survey at Longview Museum

The Longview Museum of Fine Arts (LMFA) in Texas is presenting 'Native Perspectives: America 250,' a survey of contemporary Indigenous artists from the American South, on view through September 12. Organized by LMFA Executive Director Tiffany Jehorek, Curator Derek Frazier, and Caddo artist Chase Kahwinhut Earles, the exhibition features thirteen artists from eleven tribes or nations. The show challenges the tendency to view Indigenous art only historically, emphasizing identity, memory, community, and modern life. Notable works include Earles's Caddo pottery with Star Wars motifs, Moira RedCorn's self-portrait 'Influencer' and her mixed-media 'Trade' addressing trade and cultural exchange, and Jeri RedCorn's 'America 250 and Me' incorporating a dollar-bill kachina figure. Other artists include Yonavea Hawkins, Jackie Bullard, Tom Farris, Bobby C. Martin, Dylan Cavin, Billy Hensley, Tony A. Tiger, Elissie John, Jason Carrasco, and Martha Berry. The exhibition includes ledger art, baskets, beadwork, and paintings that explore Native identity, heritage, and contemporary life. It also addresses issues like the Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood and the proposed SAVE America Act. The show is part of the America 250 celebration and reflects the growing mainstream recognition of Native artists, as seen in Jeffrey Gibson's Venice Biennale and Met commissions.