EXHIBITION SPOTLIGHT

From July to December 2022, staff from many departments worked steadily and with enthusiasm to give the Indigenous American Art galleries—formerly called the Arts of the Americas—a “makeover.” The artworks extend from Alaska to the Andes, with highlights from North America, Mesoamerica, the Isthmo-Colombian Area, and Peru. The much-anticipated project included a fresh coat of white paint throughout, with each of the four major geographic regions marked by its own distinctive splash of color. Introductory text at both entrances, clear signage, revised and bilingual labels, and newly developed interactives give the galleries an energetic and inviting feel. This project was enhanced by consultation with DFW community members in two listening sessions, which were followed by smaller, targeted working group meetings. Along with the reinvigorated interior galleries, the Atrium Overlook now boasts works from across the Americas, including the oldest artwork juxtaposed with the most recently created piece in the collection: a small sculpture from Ecuador dating to 2450 BCE and a ceramic gourd effigy vase made in 2019. Together they represent a time span of 4,469 years. The Hoblitzelle Gallery has also been reimagined, and now features artworks from the Indigenous and Latin American collections that speak to several themes, including "Mothers Across Millennia" and "Feathers and Fins." We hope to see you in the galleries soon!