Union gallery showcasing Native American art, reception set for Nov. 13

The exhibit “Four Directions: A Journey Through Native American Art” is on display through Friday, Nov. 30, in the Student Union Art Gallery. An opening reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 13.

The exhibit’s theme centers on the relationship between traditional and contemporary Native American art forms. Native American artists from Southwest, Plains and Eastern tribes contributed work to the show. UNC Charlotte student artists also are featured.

“Four Directions showcases a wide variety of historical Native American artifacts,” said Brittany Bryant, student coordinator for the gallery. “Artifacts from several tribes are on display. I encourage everyone to come by the Student Union Art Gallery and experience all ‘Four Directions’ has to offer.”

The display features diverse art forms, including graffiti, hand-woven baskets, mixed media, tribal regalia, paintings and beadwork. A 30-minute film “Native American Veterans: Storytelling for Healing” will play continuously during the exhibit.

According to Native American Student Organization president Brandie MacDonald, the choice to feature such a wide array of mediums is intentional: it aims to create a narrative about Native American cultural identity and expression.

One of the pieces, an 8-foot-x -8-foot graffiti wall, was created by acclaimed Native American artists Jaque Fragua and Yatika Fields in collaboration with students from Garinger High School. Both artists worked with the students to create individual artworks that expressed their personal identities, then combined all the pieces into a larger installation.

The Student Union Art Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays. Check the Student Union website for holiday hours.