Eagles, Snakes, and Shifting Sands

Spanning over 150 years, this installation highlights the extraordinary beauty and diversity in Southwest and Southern California Native American arts. Juxtaposing historic textiles, basketry, and pottery with contemporary examples illustrates the dynamic changes over time and the resilience of cultural traditions that characterize Native American creative expression.

Historically, women were primarily responsible for mastering the complex arts of pueblo pottery, Navajo textiles, and basket weaving, but more male artists are practicing traditional arts today. In addition to great technical skill and artistic vision, these artists developed an intimate knowledge of their cultural traditions and practices. While these art forms were born of necessity hundreds to thousands of years ago, they embody complex cultural and aesthetic qualities well beyond their functional purpose.

All artworks in this installation are from the museum’s permanent collection. Cahuilla, Chemehuevi, Navajo, Santa Clara, Tesuque, and Acoma Pueblo artists are featured along with contemporary works by Hopi ceramicist Preston Duwyenie and Navajo textile artist Melissa Cody.