Past Exhibits
September 21, 2024 through January 12, 2025
Eric J. Kaldahl, Curator
Amerind at the Tucson Botanical Gardens: Indigenous art in an abundant land
Indigenous Art in an Abundant Land draws upon works by Indigenous artists from the Amerind Museum’s permanent collection. From paintings with richly detailed realism to artworks that are symbolic, abstract meditations- these artists invite you to see the world through their eyes, as realized through the work of their hands.
For more information, visit the Tucson Botanical Gardens.
Image: “Woman with Olla”, 2014 by Stephen Mack (Tohono O’odham), Amerind permanent collection.
June 1, 2024 through November 30, 2024
Curatorial Team: Becky Neideffer (TPS), Maria M. Martinez, John Miller and Irene Komadia (Amerind) Jurors
THE POWER OF PASTEL
Pastel was first used in the fifteenth century, notably by Leonardo da Vinci. It flourished in the eighteenth century and again in the late nineteenth century. Originally used as a tool for preparatory studies, it soon became a medium for all art genres. In the modern era, pastels are formed from pure pigment with a binder. The softness or hardness of the pastel depends on the type of binder.
The Tucson Pastel Society was formed in 2010 to unite pastelists within the art community of southern Arizona to stimulate artistic growth and to further the public’s understanding and appreciation of pastels as a painting medium.
This juried show, The Power of Pastel, is a snapshot of the many talented pastel artists of a society that embraces the uniqueness of each artist and the many styles in which they paint.
Information about the Tucson Pastel Society can be found here.
Image: “Between Storms” by Annette Grantham, 13″ x 10″
November 25, 2023, through October 31, 2024
Eric J. Kaldahl, Maria M. Martinez, Curators
Tohono O'odham Himdag in brush and lens: Paintings of michael chiago; photography of bernard siquieros
The word himdag refers to the Tohono O’odham way of life. Himdag encompasses values, traditions, artforms, history, and relationships to each other and the world around us.
Painter Michael Chiago is a prolific artist who has created thousands of original works over a career spanning decades. In color and line, Michael celebrates O’odham himdag. Photographer Bernard Siquieros is a passionate educator of O’odham himdag with a long and diverse career. Through it all-Bernard has carried a camera, capturing O’odham himdag in moments of everyday life and in moments of celebration. In brush and lens, these two men chronicle the great strength of the Tohono O’odham community, honoring their rich heritage and working together for brighter tomorrows.
Top image: The Saguaro Fruit Harvest, 1994, watercolor painting by Michael Chiago, Sr., Amerind Collection
Bottom photograph: Women Making Cecemait (tortillas) by Bernard Siquieros
September 2023 through September 29, 2024
Maria Arvayo, Eric J. Kaldahl, Maria M. Martinez, Curators
Inspired by texas canyon: the art of maria arvayo
I had the opportunity to complete an artist residency at Amerind in the spring and fall of 2020. During this time, I hiked the various fire access roads and trails on the grounds and did a number of plein air paintings. After leaving I did a few more. In the spring of 2022 and 2023, I was able to teach multi-day plein air classes on the grounds. A few of the demonstration pieces are also included. I’m always inspired by the landscape in Southern Arizona, and I hope to share my appreciation for the particular kind of beauty that is abundant in the land and sky here. I’m very grateful for having had the opportunity to explore Amerind, and I think it’s wonderful that other visitors will have better access to the spectacular landscape. – Maria Arvayo
Maria Arvayo is a painter and a member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe living in Tucson, Arizona. She utilizes a variety of media including watercolor, pastel, acrylic, oil, and encaustic. She works and teaches in her studio at the Art & Design Center in Tucson and exhibits locally. This is her second solo exhibit at the Amerind.
Photograph: Hilltop, oil on board, Painting by Maria Arvayo
June 2023 through September 30, 2024
Lucho Soler, Maria M. Martinez, Michelle Dominguez, and Lori Barkwill Love, Curators
LUCHO SOLER FINE POTTERY ART
Amerind is proud to announce a new for-sale exhibit entitled: Lucho Soler Fine Pottery Art. Since the age of 10, Lucho has experimented and worked with clay for nearly 60 years. His pottery has been showcased in galleries across the US and in Peru. Born in Lima, Peru, Lucho has extensively studied the ancient pottery of the Andean area of South America. He has also spent time working with the potters of Santa Clara Pueblo, New Mexico. The product of this long journey of pottery exploration is a unique one-of-a-kind work of art, which represents a blending of old, new, Peruvian, and Southwest techniques and designs.
This exhibit features 40 of Lucho’s finest pieces. Each pot was formed by hand, traditionally fired, and laboriously polished with agate stones. Lucho uses a variety of design techniques, such as fine gold appliques, carved designs, and all-natural pigment paints and slips. He incorporates his interpretation of ancient geometric and figurative motifs to create a unique and beautiful, contemporary ceramic masterpiece.
June 2023 through September 30, 2024
December 22, 2023 through May 28, 2024
Wendy Davis (FWA), Beth Fulfer (FWA), Eric J. Kaldahl (Amerind), Maria M. Martinez (Amerind), John Miller (Amerind), Barbara Peck (FWA), and Helen Sanders (FWA), Curatorial Team
WE LOVED IT! FRIENDS OF WESTERN ART FAVORITES
In 1981, a group of Tucsonans, who shared an excitement about the depth and diversity of the Art of the American West, formed Friends of Western Art (FWA), a nonprofit organization. In the years since its inception, FWA has sponsored a legacy of artists and events that has enriched and informed members and the general public about the significance of Western Art. The mission of Friends of Western Art is to promote awareness of the art of the American West by providing sponsorship and support to Western artists, artisans, educational programs, and art-related organizations in Tucson and Southern Arizona. This exhibition is a joint venture between the Amerind Museum and Friends of Western Art. In this exhibition, several members of the Friends have shared favorite works from their private collections for all of us to enjoy. To learn more about FWA and their programs, visit their website at https://friendsofwesernart.org/.
Image: “Woman with Olla” (2014) by Stephen Mack (Tohono O’odham). Amerind permanent collection. used with the permission of the artist.
May 2022 through July 2023
Eric J. Kaldahl, Carolyn O’Bagy Davis, Maria Martinez, Michelle Dominguez, and Lori Barkwill Love Co-Curators
Hopi Quilts
The ancient communities of Hopi have a rich textile and artistic tradition. Their daily tools, made by hand, have both beauty and utility. The craft of quilting was introduced to Hopi in the latter half of the nineteenth century. From its initial adoption by the Hopi, quilting became an important craft, providing comfort and warmth. As generations have passed, quilts were incorporated into Hopi ceremony and important life passages. As it became an increasingly important cultural artform, fine quilters today apply the rich tradition of Hopi designs into their art. Quilts have become an indispensable part of Hopi life.
This exhibit features works by 9 contemporary Hopi artists. Hand painted designs appear on many of the quilt blocks.
Photograph: Butterfly Maiden and Pottery, 2019, Quilt by Bonnie Nampeyo
November 12, 2022 through May 28, 2023
Wendy Davis, Beth Fulfer, Eric Kaldahl, Maria Martinez, Barbara Peck, and Helen Sanders, Curators
Livestock at Home & On the Range
Livestock has shaped every aspect of life in the American West. The management, care, and feeding of livestock influenced land ownership, law, water rights, town locations, railroad destinations, architecture, and jobs. In caring for these magnificent animals, families have dedicated generations to their husbandry. Livestock are embedded in the lives of many communities.
The artists of the American West have always found livestock, their caretakers, and ranches to be a source of inspiration. This exhibition includes over twenty artists who have captured livestock buildings and these essential animals in action and repose.
In addition to Amerind artworks from the permanent collection, this show contains breathtaking pieces from private collections that cannot be seen anywhere but here. This exhibition is a joint venture between the Amerind and Friends of Western Art (FWA), a nonprofit organization whose members support awareness of and promote Western Art.
July 10, 2022 through May 14, 2023
Randy Kemp, Maria Martinez, and John Miller, Curators
Transformation, Spirituality, and Humor
I chose to exhibit a series of paintings, mixed media, found objects, and printmaking processes, as a sort of retrospective to the present. Some pieces cover the theme of “Transformation” depicting a partly-human and raven (bird) emergence, “When Raven becomes a Man.” Connected to mythology or folklore, this story is along the lines of “Trickster” and “Deer Woman” from our Native American cultural storytelling.
The “Spirituality” works promote the human behavior of prayer in life and death. The belief in something greater (Creator) or what lies in the afterlife in the spiritual realms. And finally, Indigenous peoples’ disposition has always advocated for “Humor” as a way of healing, fostering good living, and/or state of mind. Particularly, with a history of difficult hurdles to overcome while continuing to change narratives of competing perspectives. These works explore the different art disciplines from painting to printmaking to capture the strength of the message.
I hope these art pieces convey the stories, interests and give insights to Indigenous issues, themes and views. – Randy Kemp, 2022
April 19, 2022 extended through May 14, 2023
Ceci Garcia, Eric J. Kaldahl, Maria Martinez John Salgado, and Glory Tacheenie-Campoy, Curators
Raíces (Roots)
Amerind is proud to announce a new collaborative exhibition entitled Raíces (Roots). Sixteen artists from Raices Taller 222 Art Gallery & Workshop have combined their talent and vision for a new and visually stunning exhibition. In this deeply personal show, the artists were asked to contribute artworks inspired by their roots. The exhibit they have created is grounded in family and community.
Raices Taller 222 Art Gallery & Workshop, a nonprofit arts organization headquartered in Tucson, brings together established and emerging artists with deep roots in southern Arizona. For over twenty-five years, their organization has brought together very diverse people from our community to help to create a better understanding of our community’s cultures and customs through the arts. Learn more about the Raices Taller 222 Art Gallery & Workshop artist collective at www.raicestaller222.com.
November 1, 2021 through May 29, 2022
Eric Kaldahl, Curator
The Horse
The horse is a transformative figure in the American West. They are embedded in the lives and families of many communities. Their power, grace, and personalities have inspired artists from all walks of life. As faithful friends and companions, horses and their people are part of our region’s history and our lives today. This exhibition includes over twenty artists who have captured these amazing creatures in action and repose.
In addition to Amerind artworks from the permanent collection, this show contains breathtaking pieces from private collections that cannot be seen anywhere but here. This exhibition is a joint venture between the Amerind Foundation and Friends of Western Art (FWA), a nonprofit organization whose members support awareness of and promote Western Art.
June 14, 2021 through April 30, 2022
Eric Kaldahl, Curator
Through the Lens of Navajo Photographer Priscilla Tacheney
A member of the Navajo Nation, Priscilla Tacheney is a Southwest landscape and portrait photographer. She has sold her work at various Native American Art show across Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado.
Priscilla has traveled to many scenic areas across the Southwest, looking to capture the beauty of Mother Earth and Father Sky. Through the lens of her camera, she sees and captures the beauty of the landscape and feels a connection with Nature’s subjects and its energy.
Her work in the field helped her appreciate and embrace the natural wonders of the Earth. She states, “As a nature photographer, I’ve become more aware of the deterioration of our planet’s natural areas. Commercial expansion and climate change are changing the landscape at an accelerated rate. Therefore, it has become important to me to capture and document the beauty that exists today.”
Priscilla continues to travel and capture the beauty of landscapes and hopes you will enjoy her work as much as she enjoyed photographing it.
February 2, 2021 through January 16, 2022
Julie Comnick, Curator
Parched: The Art of Water in the Southwest
a Traveling exhibit from the Flagstaff Arts Council
From prolonged drought to flash floods, what are the particularities and paradoxes surrounding water in the American Southwest? Who has rights to water? How is water shared among people, plants, and other animals? How do we reconcile diverse cultural and spiritual views of water? Parched: The Art of Water in the Southwest explores the complexity of water in the face of climate change and increasing populations. Nine Arizona-based artists created works, informed by scientific and cultural inquiry, that reflect diverse perspectives and provocative insight into our intricate relationship with water in our natural, cultural, and political landscapes.
Photo by Shawn Skabelund.
June 14, 2021 through October 31, 2021
Eric Kaldahl, Curator
Hummingbirds and Desert Flowers – Becoming Attractions
John P. Schaefer, PhD became fascinated with birds as a Boy Scout in the late 1940s, when he chose to pursue a merit badge in Bird Study. His experience of identifying studying bird species stayed with him and bird watching became a passion. Photography also played a role in his personal and professional life but, perhaps surprisingly, he never tried to marry the two until recently. Photographing birds is a distinct challenge, requiring time, patience, and special equipment. Living adjacent to Saguaro National Park in an area with a landscape that has been respected by those around him has made Schaefer yard a safe and welcoming environment for wildlife, including visiting and breeding birds. Feeders have attracted Anna’s, Black-chinned, Broad-billed, and Costa’s Hummingbirds to us on a year-round basis. After a few years of getting acquainted, Schaefer decided to try his hand at photographing these hummingbirds in action.
Dr. John P. Schaefer enjoys a reputation as a skilled photographer, in addition to his teaching and research. He is founder of the University of Arizona Center for Creative Photography, the archive center of Ansel Adams’ photography, and the author of three best-selling books on photographic techniques. His photographs have appeared in publications including, “Arizona Highways.”
October 20, 2020 through May 30, 2021
Eric Kaldahl, Curator
How the West was Built
A joint Friends of Western Art—Amerind Exhibition
From ancient cliff dwellings to Wild West main streets, from ranch houses to churches, from places long abandoned to places thriving today—this exhibit celebrates the diverse architecture of the West. Featuring pieces by over 20 artists, the show includes works from private collections and Amerind. You will see breathtaking artworks that can’t be seen anywhere else. This exhibition is a joint venture between the Amerind Museum and Friends of Western Art, a nonprofit organization whose members support awareness of and promote Western Art.
February 8, 2020 through March 1, 2021
Gabriel Ayala and Eric Kaldahl, Curators
Siki Yoka, the art of Gabriel Ayala (Yoeme)
A member of the Yaqui people of Southern Arizona, guitarist Gabriel Ayala is a classically trained musician, composer and multi- dimensional artist. In October 2017, Gabriel began creating ledger art—a deeply personal and contemporary way of infusing his cultural traditions of storytelling through visual art. The new expression now numbers more than 150 pieces. Gabriel’s work showcases moments in history to share and educate people on the travesties that have occurred to Indigenous people who have been silenced for far too long. Gabriel serves as an advocate for education for all youth. Gabriel believes in leading our children in the right direction through his philosophy, “Love your children, Honor your elders, and Respect your women.”
Summer 2020 through December 31, 2020
Eric Kaldahl, Curator
The West: Land of Many Stories
The Amerind Museum’s collection brings together artists from many cultures and places. The American West encompasses recent homesteads and ancient farming villages, sheepherders and cattle ranchers, bustling towns and isolated hamlets. Its people speak dozens of languages and are the inheritors of many histories. We have gathered here some of the artists of Amerind’s permanent collection to give you a sense of this many storied land. As all good art does, we hope that their work will touch our visitors across cultures, times, and places.
Summer 2020 through December 31, 2020
Melanie Yazzie and Eric Kaldahl, Curators
Walking Quietly: Mixed Media Works by Melanie Yazzie (Diné)
As a printmaker, painter, and sculptor, Melanie Yazzie’s work draws upon her rich Diné (Navajo) cultural heritage. Her work follows the Diné dictum “walk in beauty” literally, creating beauty and harmony. As an artist, she works to serve as an agent of change by encouraging others to learn about social, cultural, and political phenomena shaping the contemporary lives of Native peoples in the United States and beyond. Her work incorporates personal experiences as well as the events and symbols from Diné culture.
March 17, 2020 through December 31, 2020
Duane Maktima and Eric Kaldahl, Curators
Singing My Song: The Art of Duane Maktima, a new exhibit by Duane Maktima (Laguna Pueblo/Hopi)
This is a retrospective exhibition on the artistic career of Duane Maktima (Laguna Pueblo/Hopi), master jeweler and metalsmith. Duane Maktima is an award winning jeweler with nearly 40 years as a working artist. In addition to selling in the best galleries, his pieces are held by several museums, including Amerind’s. Learn more about Duane’s life, career, and development into a nationally recognized jewelry designer, artist, and mentor.
Summer 2020 through October 18, 2020
Eric Kaldahl, Curator
From Above: Images of a Storied Land
Adriel Heisey is a legendary photographer whose work has been published by the Smithsonian and National Geographic. His work is greatly admired by the archaeological community for his amazing ability to capture the beauty and wonder of ancient communities. Courtesy of the nonprofit organization Archaeology Southwest, Amerind has borrowed 15 large-format aerial photographs of historical landscapes located in the southwestern US and northwestern Mexico. These breathtaking images include many ancient communities well known to Amerind’s guests: Paquimé in Chihuahua, Reeve Ruin in the San Pedro valley, the ancient fields of Safford, and many others. Come see these important places in a whole new light.
August 31, 2019 through August 16, 2020
Gil Scott and Eric Kaldahl, Curators
Quiet Clouds, a new exhibit by Gil Scott (Diné)
From the artist: My palette of colors is strong, bold, and simple. My images and subjects are interpretations of how I view my culture, my Diné (Navajo) heritage. My subjects are the high southwest desert landscapes, traditional baskets, and our traditional homes known as “Hogans.” These are just a few subjects which inspire my imagination.
October 5, 2019 through May 24, 2020
Friends of Western Art and Amerind, Curators
Cowboys at Work: Friends of Western Art Exhibit-Amerind Joint Exhibit
Cowboys and cowgirls have inspired generations of artists to try and capture their unique work, lives, and land in paintings and sculpture.
May 21, 2019 through April 26, 2020
Artist: Maria Arvayo (Yoeme)
Maria Arvayo and Eric Kaldahl, Curators
Capturing Sunlight: Images from the Southwest
Maria Arvayo focuses on depicting the Sonoran landscape and is inspired by the natural world. She captures the quality of light, the warmth and the distinct beauty. She works in a wide variety of media, but the majority is in oil, acrylic, pastel, and encaustic. Artwork for sale.
May 14, 2019 through April 11, 2020
Gerry Quotskuyva and Eric Kaldahl, Curators
The Art of Gerry Quotskuyva
Hopi artist Gerry Quotskuyva’s, (Bear Strap Clan, Second Mesa Village of Shungopavo) remarkable style has been nationally recognized on public television, in newspaper articles, and books, including Art of the Hopi by Jerry and Lois Jacka, Katsina by Zena Pearlstone, and Ancestral Echoes, a 10-year retrospective. This exhibit represents his finest carvings, paintings, and sculptures. Artwork for sale.
March 9, 2019 through February 29, 2020
Eric Kaldahl, Curator
Water Is Life
Water, rain, snow, springs, lakes are all vital to life in the southwest. In this exhibit, the subject of ten Indigenous artists’ works speaks to water—its inspiration and its importance to all.
June 8, 2019 through September 15, 2019
Eric Kaldahl, Curator
Desert Flowers: The Photography of Dr. John P. Schaefer
Dr. John P. Schaefer enjoys a reputation as a skilled photographer, in addition to his teaching and research. He is the founder of the University of Arizona Center for Creative Photography, the archive center of Ansel Adams’ photography, and the author of three best-selling books on photographic techniques. His photographs have appeared in Arizona Highways. In recent years he has photographed cacti and succulent plants and flowers, which are the focus of this exhibition. This special art exhibit is brought to you by the generosity of Dr. Michael Diesenhouse and Eye Associates of Tucson.
August 28, 2018 through August 16, 2019
Jeffers Choyguha and Eric Kaldahl, Curators
Personal Birth Process: Jeffers Choyguha
Jeffers Choyguha’s paintings are inspired by her pregnancy and her son’s earliest years. The paintings reflect on feelings of pain, anguish, and peace. Some are prayers; some are fears. They all honor woman’s experiences with the birth process.
Wendy Davis, Aline Goodman, Eric Kaldahl, Alex Lee, and Helen Sanders, Curators
Women of the American West
This exhibit, celebrating women in the art of the American West, is a joint venture between the Amerind Foundation and Friends of Western Art (FWA), a nonprofit organization whose members support awareness of and promote Western Art.
Ed Kabotie, Curator
The Art of Ed Kabotie
I am a third generation artist from the Hopi village of Shungopavi and the Tewa village of Khapo-Owinge (Santa Clara Pueblo). My current work reflects not only my Puebloan heritage, but also reactions to the sacred landscapes of Northern Arizona. My creations take the forms of watercolor paintings, ink and marker drawings, and multi-instrumental, trilingual compositions. —Ed Kabotie
Eric Kaldahl, Curator
The Photography of Dr. John P. Schaefer: Tohono O’odham and Rarámuri
Dr. John Schaefer served on the University of Arizona faculty for 21 years, held titles of head of the Department of Chemistry, dean of the College of Liberal Arts, and served as president of the university from 1971-1982. In addition to pursing an active career in teaching and research, Dr. Schaefer enjoys a reputation as a skilled photographer. He is founder of the University of Arizona Center for Creative Photography. The photographs in this exhibit were taken by Dr. Schaefer during his visits to Rarámuri (Tarahumara) communities in Chihuahua and to Tohono O’odham communities in southern Arizona and northern Sonora.
Gabriel Ayala and Eric Kaldahl, Curators
The Water Protectors: The Standing Rock camps through the lens of Gabriel Ayala
Gabriel Ayala is a member of the Pascua Yaqui tribe. A world renowned musician, Mr. Ayala has traveled the world to perform and teach. When he heard about the events taking place near the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation, North Dakota, Mr. Ayala decided to stand with the many Indigenous people who call themselves the Water Protectors. The Water Protectors opposed the construction of a petroleum pipeline called the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL). From around the nation, thousands of people gathered at several camps near Lake Oahe. Mr. Ayala lived in the camps for several months at a time. This exhibit of photographs, taken in 2016, continues Mr. Ayala’s efforts to educate others about the Water Protectors’ experience.
Carolyn O'Bagy Davis and Eric Kaldahl, Curators
Willard J. Page: Artist on the Southwest Road
Willard Page was a landscape artist who moved westward to make a career that provided him and his wife Ethel with a comfortable and happy life. With moderate pricing, a great deal of hustle, clever methods, and a regional client base, Willard and Ethel marketed his art to locals and avid tourists eager for an affordable memento of the West’s majestic landscapes.
Eric Kaldahl, Curator
The West: Land of Many Stories
The Amerind Museum has a rich legacy of art. Paintings and sculptures have stories to tell. The museum’s permanent art collection brings together artists from many cultures and places. The west encompasses recent homesteads and ancient farming villages, sheepherders and cattle ranchers, bustling towns and isolated hamlets. Its people speak dozens of languages and are the inheritors of many histories. This exhibit displays Amerind’s permanent collection artists to give you a sense of this many storied land.
Ron Bridgemon, Jr.
Inspired by the Past—Pottery Traditions
Many contemporary potters in the American Southwest and northern Mexico were inspired by ancient pottery making traditions. This exhibit displays pottery from the communities of San Ildefonso, Jemez, Hopi, Pee Posh, and Mata Ortiz. The Mexican village of Mata Ortiz is home to several hundred potters who were inspired by the ancient pottery of Paquimé. Amerind’s unique role in supporting early Mata Ortiz pottery competitions is presented.
