In celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the breathtaking exhibit “Between Two Worlds: Making Sense of Modern Life From Indigenous Perspectives” opened Oct. 2 at ShowUp in Boston’s South End.
“The show is six amazing Native American artists who are all combining these different ideas of contemporary techniques and traditional ideas,” said Lu Valena, the exhibitions and events manager at ShowUp.
The works explore the complex themes of being a Native American in today’s society. The artists utilize modern painting techniques and vivid colors while displaying traditional Native ideas, focusing on the juxtapositions between Native culture and American society.
The exhibit features art from Hailey-Jade Araujo, Carlin Bear Don’t Walk, Alison Begay, Scott Strong Hawk Foster, Sierra Henries and Danielle SeeWalker.
One particular work is “These Dayz” by Carlin. The oil painting depicts a young man smoking in the foreground while scenes of chaos and poverty transpire in the background. “[The piece is] just another day in the life where I’m from,” said Carlin, “We are not what we go through. But what we go through helps make us who we are.”
Another is “That One Over There Is Shameful, Ennit?” by SeeWalker, which shows a young woman, her face devoid of detail with the exception of one realistic eye.
“[The artists] are grappling with personal questions of identity during a time when we are simultaneously being stifled, highlighted and overlooked by society,” said Nayana LaFond, the curator of the exhibit.
LaFond did a wonderful job in her curation: The works are successful in breaking down barriers in understanding the duality of the modern Indigenous experience. Even to those who are unfamiliar with the topic, the exhibit is designed in such a way that it initiates learning and consideration. Paintings are displayed at eye level, so rather than looming over the viewer, they feel more like a conversation.
In contrast to larger galleries such as those in the Museum of Fine Arts, ShowUp is community-centered and personal. The art is rich with emotions in stark contrast to abstract modern art.
The entrance to the exhibit is right on the street, and there are no tickets or signing in. The beautiful experience begins as soon as the doorway is crossed. It is a humble, welcoming environment that encourages the exploration of diverse perspectives. Admission is free for anyone.
Located only a 10-minute walk from the Medford/Tufts Station, ShowUp is easily accessible from Suffolk University and brings a world of diverse artists’ voices straight to students’ fingertips.
ShowUp participates in a number of events that Suffolk students and the Boston community can get involved in. Notably, they will have a booth at the Affordable Art Fair Oct. 24 and 25 at SoWa Power Station at 550 Harrison Ave. Tickets are required in advance, and free tickets can be obtained through a flyer at ShowUp’s exhibit, or VIP tickets can be requested through ShowUp’s website. Otherwise, they can be purchased online.
To those looking to engage with Native perspectives this Indigenous Peoples’ Day, or to artists yearning for bright inspiration, ShowUp is a transformative experience.
“Between Two Worlds” can be viewed at 524 Harrison Ave. until Feb. 1.
