Exhibit Opening Reception: Friday November 2nd • 4:30-7:00pm • FREE Admission
Lecture to follow with artist Larry Xhe Dhé Tee Harbor Jackson McNeil and a discussion with Saankalaxt’ Ernestine Hayes • 7:00pm in the APK Lecture Hall
Sponsored by the Friends of the Alaska State Library, Archives & Museum
JUNEAU – Larry Xhe Dhé Tee Harbor Jackson McNeil and Edward Curtis have both made their careers out of photographing the Indigenous people of North America. This “Real Indians” exhibition examines the ongoing visual dialogue about the question of what the concept of “Real Indians” is all about. Is it the colonial romanticized view from outsiders like Edward Curtis, Larry McNeil’s classic yet contemporary inside view, or a mix of both? The question of authenticity with photographs of Indigenous people is becoming more relevant all the time, and it is a healthy act to revisit these questions in an evolving set of cultures.
Larry Xhe Dhé Tee Harbor Jackson McNeil
McNeil’s art is about the intersection of cultures, American mythology, irony, and satire, and embodies a distinctive sense of American identity. He is from the Dakl’aweidi Kéet Gooshi Hít, Killer Whale Fin House in Klukwan Alaska, which is one of the oldest Tlingit clan houses on the Northwest Coast. He has won numerous fellowships, including the Van Deren Coke Fellowship from the University of New Mexico, Eiteljorg Fellowship, an Arts and Humanities Fellowship and awards for his art from places like the National Geographic All Roads Program and a New Works Award from En Foco.
Saankalaxt’ Ernestine Hayes
Hayes belongs to the Kaagwaantaan clan of the Eagle side of the Tlingit Nation. She is a professor at the University of Alaska Southeast and the current Alaska State Writer Laureate. She is the author of several books, including The Tao of Raven, and Blonde Indian which was a 2007 American Book Award winner.
The exhibit will be on display through January 12, 2019. Winter hours at the State Museum are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Discounted winter admission is $7, with $1 off for seniors. Those age 18 and under admitted free. An annual pass that allows unlimited visits to the Alaska State Museum and the Sheldon Jackson Museum in Sitka is available for $35. Assistance is available for visitors who have special needs. Please contact Visitor Services at 465-2901 before the visit.
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