Art of the Indigenous People of the Pacific NW Featured at UD
One of the most remarkable aspects of relocating back to my hometown of Dubuque and the Tri-States is discovering the packed calendar of fun and exciting events.
Whether it's as simple as a visit to a Saturday morning farmer's market or a live music venue, one seeks. Or perhaps it's festivals or small-town street fairs; you don't have to look or travel far for an enjoyable experience.
This is especially true at Heritage Center at the University of Dubuque, where there is an ongoing schedule of top-tier events, including music, theater, and art, at a first-class venue.
This Saturday offers a prime example of cultural offerings available to the community. The University of Dubuque's Bisignano Art Gallery will host a free reception for "Tsimshian: Art of the Indigenous People of the Pacific Northwest."
The gallery reception is open to the public from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022, in the gallery at Heritage Center, 2255 Bennett Street.
"It is clearly a bold, beautiful, and intricate art form," said Alan Garfield, Director of the Art Gallary. "At one time, Tsimshian art was forbidden. Yet, it is now experiencing a renascence of sorts."
The exhibit includes a beaded throw, bentwood box, drum, and additional artwork.
Featured Tsimshian artist David Boxley is a former Woodward Artist-in-Residence at UD. Originally from Metlakatla, Alaska, Boxley now lives and teaches in Seattle, Washington. He has dedicated over 40 years to interpreting and modernizing Tsimshian art and culture.
"His (Boxley's) art demonstrates that a culture threatened by extinction can still be alive and thriving," Garfield said.
Boxley has produced thousands of works for patrons worldwide, including the totem pole Eagle's Journey on display at UD.
The reception for "Tsimshian: Art of the Indigenous People of the Pacific Northwest" will take place in conjunction with Tony Danza: Standards & Stories at 8 p.m. Oct. 22 in John and Alice Butler Hall, Heritage Center. For more information or to purchase tickets to the Tony Danza performance, please visit www.dbq.edu/heritagecenter.
Gallery hours are noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday during the academic year. The art gallery is also open in conjunction with all major events in John and Alice Butler Hall, Heritage Center.
"Tsimshian: Art of the Indigenous People of the Pacific Northwest" is available virtually at http://gallery.dbq.edu.