Nicholas Galanin's Indigenous Repatriation Demands and 2025 Boston Exhibitions

Nicholas Galanin, an artist of Lingít and Unangax̂ heritage, is calling for the complete return of Indigenous lands, artifacts, and remains, while criticizing the practices of museums. In 2019, he made headlines by withdrawing his piece White Noise, American Prayer Rug from the Whitney Biennial in protest against board member Warren B. Kanders. Looking ahead to 2025, Galanin is set to unveil a 2.3-meter bronze sculpture at the Boston Public Art Triennial, running from May 22 to October 31, along with a solo exhibition at MassArt Art Museum from May 22 to November 30. His 2021 work, Never Forget, featured a massive 'Indian Land' sign in Palm Springs, while his 2023 neon piece, Neon American Anthem (white), invites viewers to engage in collective mourning. Galanin’s endeavors highlight the significance of Indigenous stewardship and confront the erasure of Indigenous cultures.