Phillips, the esteemed auction house, is ushering in a groundbreaking exhibition, ‘New Terrains’, a landmark showcase of contemporary Native American art in New York. The exhibition, running through January 23, is a grand spectacle of over 120 works spanning painting, sculpture, photography, video, jewelry, pottery, and weaving. More than 60 Indigenous artists from mid-20th century to the present day have their works on display, reflecting the creative diversity and artistic prowess of the Native American tribes.

Curatorial Brilliance behind ‘New Terrains’

Bruce Hartman, former executive director of the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, curated this exhibition alongside Tony Abeyta and James Trotta-Bono. Together, they have assembled a diverse collection that mirrors the multifaceted creative responses of Indigenous artists to modernism, post-war, and pop art movements. Their artistry is interwoven with their social and political experiences, lending the exhibition a uniquely resonant depth.

Artists and Artworks in Spotlight

The exhibition features revered artists like Jaune Quick-to-See Smith and Fritz Scholder, while also spotlighting emerging artists such as Navajo weaver Calvin Toney. Scholder’s ‘Sitting Indian, 1972’ and Monkman’s ‘Death of Adonis, 2010’ are among the notable works. These masterpieces reflect the rich tapestry of Native American art and offer a profound commentary on their societal context.

Recognition for Contemporary Native American Art

‘New Terrains’ seeks to be inclusive of various tribes from the U.S. and Canada and crosses boundaries of gender and tribal affiliations. This broad representation has already piqued the interest of museums and private foundations, marking a significant moment for the recognition and market appreciation of contemporary Native American and Canadian First Nations art. Artwork prices at the exhibition range from approximately $8,000 to nearly $1 million, suggesting a promising future for Indigenous art in the global art market.