Part of the reimagining of our Arts of Indigenous America galleries, this is the first in a series of exhibitions that highlights specific regions of Native California. This installation explores the interconnections between art, ceremony, and the land in the Karuk, Yurok, Hupa, Tolowa, Tsnungwe, and Wiyot communities of northwestern California. The exhibition presents collection highlights alongside major loans, acquisitions, and commissions by contemporary artists.

Together, these works offer a broader view of the artistic and cultural traditions of the region, bringing together objects from the museum’s collection with works that expand the presentation into the present day. By placing historical materials alongside contemporary artistic practices, the exhibition creates connections across generations and emphasizes the continuing relationships between creative expression, community, ceremony, and place.

The presentation also provides an opportunity to consider the ways in which art can reflect and sustain connections to the land and to cultural traditions. Through the combination of collection highlights, loans, acquisitions, and newly commissioned works, the exhibition brings different perspectives into conversation while drawing attention to the enduring artistic practices and living communities of northwestern California.