ABQ Times

A new exhibition showcasing the work of 23 renowned Indigenous artists is set to open at City Hall's Gallery One on Thursday, October 10. The exhibition, titled NA(RRA)TIVE, marks the first time the city's Indigenous public art collection has been examined from both moral and artistic perspectives. The opening event will take place from 3 to 5 p.m., and both the opening and the exhibition are free for the public.

The exhibit prompts visitors to consider whether the story told by a collection reflects more about its collector than its subjects. It questions if Native Arts are viewed through a romanticized lens or if efforts have been made to present an authentic voice over time.

The Public Art Urban Enhancement Division is taking this opportunity to reflect on 45 years of public art in Albuquerque. The goal is to assess progress away from what is described as the "settler’s gaze" and to better understand these works' historical and cultural impact on New Mexico's arts scene.

“This insightful show gives us an opportunity to dive deeper into learning about and appreciating the important work of Indigenous artists,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “We’re uniquely fortunate in this city to have a vast and diverse collection of public art for all to enjoy, and a dedicated program that consistently expands our horizons.”

The exhibition features works by artists such as Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, Lonnie Vigil, Caroline Carpio, Kathleen Wall, Lorraine Gala Lewis, Marilyn Ray, Del Curfman, Roderick Kaskalla, Dinah & Peter Gasper, Cippy CrazyHorse, Phil Hughte, C. Maurus Chino, Mateo Romero, Roderick Tenorio, Deborah Jojola, Neal Ambrose Smith, George Rivera, Jonathan Warm Day, Nora Naranjo Morse, and Daniel Walters.

An artist celebration event is scheduled for November 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. NA(RRA)TIVE will remain on display until December 6. Gallery One operates Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., located on the first floor of City Hall at 1 Civic Plaza NW.