An American Indian Art Exhibition is showcased at Epcot. “Creating Tradition: Innovation and Change in American Indian Art” is at American Heritage Gallery inside American Adventure.
The exhibition displays the work of contemporary Native artists alongside artifacts from centuries past. The display demonstrates how ancestral craftsmanship influences modern generations. 89 pieces represent 40 different American Indian tribes from seven geographic regions.
Highlights from the Creating Tradition collection include:
- Fashion designer Loren Aragon (Acoma Pueblo) used patterns on a jar made in the 1900s as inspiration for his “Ancient Resonance” dress.
- A Pokagon Potawatomi black ash hamper basket, made in the early 1900s, is paired with modern baskets. It exemplifies how this technique was maintained over centuries.
- A Chilkat blanket from Alaska dating to the 1890s complements “Raven and the Box of Daylight,” a 2017 glass sculpture by Preston Singletary (Tlingit).
“Creating Tradition” also offers three interactive video exhibits. Contemporary American Indian artists share perspectives on their work and culture. Wave a hand in front of the campfire. The “flames” will transform into a video presentation. Music playing in the gallery is performed by Native musicians.
Creating Tradition is produced in collaboration with the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture in Santa Fe, New Mexico also collaborate.
“I am delighted to recognize this association with Disney as their leadership shares the vision and creativity of contemporary American Indian artists with international visitors.” Said Kevin Gover (Pawnee), director of the National Museum of the American Indian. “We hope Epcot visitors will see the American experience begins with the American Indians who have always been here.”
“We are honored to collaborate with Walt Disney Imagineering and the Smithsonian in developing this exhibition.” Said Della Warrior (Otoe-Missouria), director of the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. “Hopefully, it will foster a greater understanding and appreciation of the various tribes located in almost every state in this nation.”
The dedication ceremony for “Creating Tradition” included a blessing from Seminole Tribe of Florida representative Bobby Henry. A stomp dance performance by Seminole tribe members.
During the next five years, the exhibition will feature new artifacts and refreshed displays. Pieces from over 573 American Indian tribes will be incorporated.
When: Open Daily
Where: American Adventure Pavilion, Epcot
