Exhibit Takes Pointed, Yet Humorous Look At History

Humor is healing.

At least that’s true for 38 nationally known American Indian artists. Their work is part of a traveling art exhibit making a two-month stop at the Cheney Cowles Museum.

The exhibit, “Indian Humor,” takes a sardonic look at how American Indians perceive themselves and how they are perceived by mainstream America. The collection includes photography, paintings, traditional beadwork and mixed-media sculptures that attempt to break down Indian stereotypes.

“We’re finding things to laugh about in our own culture,” says Cheryl Grunlose, a Spokane Indian artist whose work is on display in a separate exhibit. “Humor used in this instance shows we’re all people. We use the same things that everyone else uses.”

But behind the humor are more serious messages, says Glenn Mason, director of the museum.

“Humor very often is the mask for other feelings,” Mason says. “So much of the humor you see in ‘Indian Humor’ are very profound statements on how they have been treated or mistreated.”

One of the pieces is a football helmet painted with a new mascot, the “D.C. Redskins.” Another artist uses pastels to portray “Liz Taylor Indians.”

Artists in the exhibit are from 13 states and one is from Canada. Although each piece reflects the experiences of the individual artist, they also offer insights into contemporary life on various tribal reservations.

Larry Schoonover, deputy director of museum programs, says the exhibit also addresses the issue of stereotypes surrounding Indian art.

“I think this is an initial step in correcting the notion that Indians just dance at powwows and make corn husk baskets,” he says.

On Saturday from 1:30-3:30 p.m., “Indian Humor” curator Sara Bates will moderate a panel discussion called “Battle Over Tradition.” Speakers, which include Indian artists, and members of the local Indian community will give brief slide presentations and lectures. The event, free with regular museum admission, includes storytelling and games for children.

Also at the museum is an exhibit of artwork from five Plateau Indian artists, curated by artist George Flett of the Spokane Tribe.

“Indian Humor” and a display dealing with Indians as invisible people are part of an ongoing series of ethnic exhibits at the museum.

, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Color photo

MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: ART EXHIBIT “Indian Humor” art exhibit will be on display through April 21 at the Cheney Cowles Museum, at 2316 W. First. A panel discussion about the role of humor in Indian art and life will be held Saturday from 1:30-3:30 p.m.