Revamped Indigenous Art Gallery at Montclair Art Museum: A Resplendent Window into Native American Artistry

At the historic Montclair Art Museum, nestled in the heart of New Jersey and founded in 1914, a transformative journey awaits art enthusiasts. The museum, renowned for its extensive collection of Indigenous North American art, recently unveiled a striking revitalization of its iconic Native American gallery. This new iteration, aptly named “Interwoven Power: Native Knowledge/Native Art,” is the culmination of a three-year-long collaboration with Native artists and scholars, signaling a shift towards a more contemporary and inclusive representation of Indigenous art.

Laura Allen, the museum’s newly appointed curator of Native American art, expressed her vision for the revamped gallery, stating, “I wanted to impress upon people visually how important Native artists have been to the 20th-century canon.” This sentiment reverberates throughout the exhibition, which artfully juxtaposes contemporary masterpieces with historical treasures in two newly renovated galleries.

Stepping into the exhibit, visitors are greeted by a neoclassical sculpture, adorned with a white translucent fringe, created by Indigenous artist Holly Wilson. This poignant tribute to Native American dance shawls serves as a powerful introduction to the immersive experience that lies ahead. As visitors venture further, their gaze is drawn to the mesmerizing large hanging soft sculptures by Eric-Paul Riege, intricately crafted to resemble earrings. These ethereal creations not only captivate the eye but also create a sacred space where Indigenous artists can perform, blurring the lines between art and ritual.

One of the most striking pieces in the gallery is a turkey-feather cape crafted by Lenape artist Rebecca Haff Lowry, a poignant reminder of the museum’s location on Lenape land. The intricate details of the cape speak to a rich cultural heritage and honor the artistic legacy of Indigenous peoples. Additionally, a thought-provoking totem pole stands tall, juxtaposed with a self-portrait by Indigenous artist Nicholas Galanin, whose image is deliberately obscured. This juxtaposition serves as a stark commentary on the impact of the colonial art market on Indigenous artists and their identities.

As visitors meander through the revamped Indigenous art gallery at the Montclair Art Museum, they are transported on a visual odyssey that celebrates the resilience, creativity, and cultural richness of Native American communities. Each piece tells a story, weaving together past and present, tradition and innovation, in a tapestry of artistic excellence. This gallery stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Indigenous artistry and the profound impact it continues to have on the art world.

Witness the magic of Indigenous art come to life at the Montclair Art Museum, where history, culture, and creativity converge in a symphony of colors, textures, and emotions. Immerse yourself in a world where every brushstroke, every sculpture, every creation is a testament to the enduring spirit of Indigenous peoples. Join us on this journey of discovery and appreciation as we delve into the captivating world of Native American art at the Montclair Art Museum.