The Denver Art Museum showcases its impressive Indigenous arts collection, highlighting its unique significance and cultural value.
Denver: The Denver Art Museum (DAM) is really making waves with its Indigenous Arts of North America Collection. This collection is a standout, boasting over 18,000 pieces that reflect the creativity of various Indian tribes.
What’s cool is that DAM was one of the first museums to focus on acquiring Native American art. Being located in the West, where many Native communities have thrived, gave it access to a treasure trove of art at reasonable prices.
They’ve recently revamped the exhibition, titled “Sustained!: The Persistent Genius of Indigenous Art.” It’s designed to help visitors understand the diverse range of objects, which include everything from textiles and jewelry to musical instruments and abstract paintings.
The new layout divides the collection into three themes: beauty, connections, and spirituality. But honestly, it’s a bit tricky to stick to those categories since many pieces overlap in meaning and purpose.
Some standout pieces include Roxanne Swentzell’s massive sculpture “Mud Woman Rolls On” and a stunning tulle halter dress by designer Orlando Dugi. There are also intricate items like a beaded skirt from the 1940s and a turquoise necklace from the Diné community.
What’s fascinating is how the exhibition mixes traditional and contemporary works. You’ll find pieces made recently alongside those crafted a century ago, showing the evolution and continuity of Indigenous art.
While the museum has faced tough questions about the acquisition and repatriation of Indigenous objects, it’s clear that DAM is committed to being a good steward of these important pieces. The care and thoughtfulness in their presentation really set them apart.
So, if you’re in Denver, don’t miss “Sustained!” It runs through 2025, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to dive into the rich world of Indigenous art.
