▲ Indian Power, Fritz Scholder(Luiseño), Oil paint on canvas, 1972 ⓒ National Museum of Korea, Denver Art Museum

The National Museum of Korea is set to host a remarkable exhibition titled "Cultures and Histories of Indigenous People in North America" from Tuesday, June 18 to Wednesday, October 9, 2024. Following its run in Seoul, the exhibition will tour at the Busan Museum from October 28, 2024, to February 16, 2025.

This special exhibition will be held in the Special Exhibition Gallery of the National Museum of Korea and is co-organized by the Denver Art Museum. It features 151 works of art, including paintings and traditional clothing, that illuminate the rich arts and cultures of the Indigenous peoples of North America. Among the notable pieces are an Inupiaq parka and works related to the American Indian activist Russel Means. 

▲ Cradle(Kiowa), 1915-1920 ⓒ Denver Art Museum

The exhibition is significant as it marks the first time in Korea that such a comprehensive collection, representing 43 different tribes, will be displayed. Visitors will have the opportunity to see iconic items such as the eagle feather headdress and the tipi, which encapsulate the past and present of these diverse cultures. These works provide a unique glimpse into the lives, traditions, and artistic expressions of the Indigenous peoples of North America.

The Indigenous peoples of North America, often referred to as “Indian” in Korea, comprise over 570 tribes across the United States alone, each with its own distinct culture and traditions. This diversity is a testament to the rich cultural mosaic that characterizes North American Indigenous heritage. The exhibition aims to shed light on this diversity and educate visitors on the vast array of cultural practices, beliefs, and artistic achievements of these communities.

▲ A Crow woman holding an infant in a decorated cradleboard(Absarokee), photograph by Edward S. Curtis, c. 1908.One of the main objectives of the exhibition is to provide a deeper understanding of the true identity of the Indigenous peoples of North America, moving beyond previous perceptions and stereotypes. It invites attendees to explore the stories embedded in each work, highlighting the connections and relevance these cultures hold in contemporary society. Through this exhibition, the organizers hope to foster a greater appreciation and respect for the enduring legacy and vibrant traditions of North American Indigenous peoples.

This initiative aspires to bring the cultures of North American Indigenous peoples closer to the Korean public, highlighting their ongoing significance and relevance in today's world. By showcasing the beauty and complexity of their art and traditions, the exhibition seeks to bridge cultural gaps and promote a more inclusive understanding of global heritage. 

Sayart / Nao Yim, yimnao@naver.com