Why Maddie Levine Was Enthralled with This New Exhibit at the Cahoon Museum

Many of us might picture specific objects, colors, or scenes when we think of Native American art, but a new exhibit at the Cahoon Museum of American Art showcases Native American artists who pushed those boundaries.

Called Action/Abstraction Redefined, this traveling exhibit features Native American art from the mid-1940s through the 1970s as paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, and ceramics. It's the first exhibit of its kind. The Cahoon Museum also is hosting hands-on activities and programs so the whole family can enjoy, learn, and interact with this exhibit.

In this article's feature image, I'm seen in front of an acrylic painting by Fritz Scholder called New Mexico #40. It was created in 1966 and is simply massive — about 6 feet tall by 4 1/4 feet wide.

Created just a year earlier, this painting's deep, moody colors really spoke to me. Neil Parsons called this Pueblo Forms #2.

Stretching over two floors of the museum, this exhibit gave me a unique and beautiful way to learn more about Native American culture. I think now, more than ever, it's important to be united. Through artful expression, I was able to experience a new narrative and appreciate the incredible works of abstract art.

The exhibit runs through June 12, and the museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. To explore upcoming events, watch artist interviews and plan your visit, visit cahoonmuseum.org.