The Mingei International Museum presents In Their Own Words – Classic and Contemporary Native American Art, on view through Sep 5, 2011.
The classic art of the indigenous peoples of North America is as diverse as the nations that created it. Beginning in the late nineteenth century, Native American classic art became popular with tourists. Styles and designs were changed to meet the demands of this new market of settlers, trading companies, and collectors. As many native nations were removed from their homelands and and moved to reservations, selling crafts and art often became a means of survival.
Today, Native American art encompasses every style, medium and message, and is as distinct as the individual artist. The four California artists represented in this exhibition share two things: they predominantly work on canvas with oils or acrylics and they all project a personal message in their work.
Classic art from North America’s indigenous artisans shown alongside paintings by four native-Californian contemporary artists:
L. Frank
Robert Freeman
Billy Soza Warsoldier
Catherine Nelson-Rodriguez
Curator: Jennifer Garey
Image: L. Frank Continent: North America Medium: Acrylic on Canvas Mingei International Museum
Mingei International Museum exhibits folk art, craft and design from all eras and cultures of the world. Its museum in San Diego’s Balboa Park features Southern California’s largest and richest collection of mingei – art of the people.
Mingei International Museum is funded in part by The City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture and The County of San Diego Community Enhancement Program.
Located at 1439 El Prado in Balboa Park, Mingei International Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday,10 a.m.–4 p.m., and is closed on Mondays and national holidays. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and $4 for students and active duty military with ID. For information, call 619-239-0003 or visit www.mingei.org