Spirit of our Ancestors: Historic Ledger Drawings of the Southern Plains Indians

AMARILLO, Texas - Sept. 12, 2024 - PRLog -- The Citadelle Art Museum announces its newest exhibit, Spirit of Our Ancestors: Historic Ledger Drawings of the Southern Plains Indians – Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Kiowa. This powerful collection features works by acclaimed Cheyenne and Arapaho artists George Curtis Levi, Brent Learned, and Beau Tsatoke. The exhibit dives into the rich history of the Southern Plains, emphasizing the impact of the Red River War and the lasting presence of Indigenous culture in the Texas Panhandle. Now open through December 2024.

For over 13,000 years, Indigenous peoples have called the Texas Panhandle home. The exhibit brings to life the history of the Southern Cheyenne, Southern Arapaho, Kiowa, Comanche, and Plains Apache, with a special focus on the Red River War of 1874-75, a pivotal moment that shaped the fate of these tribes. Through the historic ledger drawings, visitors will explore the resilience of the Southern Plains tribes as they faced the near extinction of the bison and fought to preserve their way of life.

Ledger art, originally drawn on the lined pages of account books, captures personal stories of warriors—depicting battles, hunting, and other facets of tribal life. This exhibition honors this tradition while showcasing how contemporary Native artists continue to breathe new life into this art form. Their work serves as a powerful symbol of cultural survival and resilience, inspiring current and future generations.

Exhibition Highlights:

• Works by George Levi, Brent Learned, and Beau Tsatoke, rooted in a deep connection to the Southern Plains.
• Pieces reflecting the legacy of the Red River War and the enduring spirit of their ancestors.
• Contemporary interpretations of ledger art, a style that resonates deeply within Native communities today.
• Historic drawing print from the Smithsonian National Museum on display - Eyewitness account of the Lyman's Wagon Train Battle Sept. 9-14, 1874 on the Ramp Ranch, Hemphill County. Drawing by, Etahdleuh Doanmore, Kiowa, drawn in 1880 after his release from Ft. Marion, FL.

Upcoming Events:

• October 12, 6 pm: A Night of Art, History, & Culinary Tradition – Experience a modern twist on a traditional Cheyenne-Arapaho dinner by Chef Ruthie Landelius, featuring bison and other Native-inspired dishes. Enjoy presentations from featured artists and scholars from the University of California San Diego and Texas Tech University. Tickets: bit.ly/BisonDinner
• October 19, 11 am–4 pm: Artists' Walk and Talk during Canadian's annual Fall Foliage Festival – Meet the artists and hear the stories behind their work.
• October 19-20: Native American Art Market during the Fall Foliage weekend – A rare opportunity to purchase art directly from Native American artists.

The Citadelle Art Museum, housed in a historic 1910 mansion, offers visitors a cultural experience with its world-class art collection and beautiful gardens. For more information visit www.thecitadelle.org.