SpilyayTymoo
Warm Springs, Oregon
December 23, 1994 3
"Sisters of the Earth" artists exhibit traditional, modern and spiritual experience
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Sisters of the Earth: Contemporary Native American Ceramics opening night at the
Museum of Warm Springs was held December 9, 1994, in the Changing Exhibits Gallery. This
exhibition project was organized by Gallery Director Peter Held and Portland artist Lillian Pitt.
Participating artists, all from the Southwest are: Elizabeth and Pablita Abeyta, Anita Fields,
Nora Naranjo-Morse, Joanna Osburn-Bigfeather, and Roxanne Swentzell.
The idea for this exhibition grew out of their mutual interest in contemporary Native
American ceramists focusing on the figure. "Sisters of the Earth" explores how six women
artists integrate centuries-old native traditions with contemporary thought Rather than feeling
encumbered by ancient methods,
they seek multiple perspectives in
finding artistic solutions. Their
art is being presented to the
Northwest for the first time. They
bridge the gap between
traditional and modem,
emotional and spiritual
experience in the process of
working with clay. They share an
interest in portraying a range of
human activity, yet differ in
aesthetic tastes, sensibilities, and
direction.
The women in this show have
a strong sense of self-identity.
Through their work, they affirm
the relationship between
humankind and the
environment. As we catapult
towards the 21st century, it
becomes increasingly important
to reaffirm our ancestral past, and
to live in balance with the
realities of modern times. One
hopes that by doing so, future
generations may better
understand their place in the
world and are left with a strong
foundation to build upon.
Photos by
Selena T. Boise
"Sheep woman.'
Many figures were exhibited.
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Cast iron art was part of exhibit.
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Dresses were exhibited.
Many people observed the pieces of ceramic art.
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Lillian Pitt reorganizes exhtoil during grand opening.