GLENDIVE, Mont., Nov. 18, 2022 -- In honor of Native American Heritage Month, Dawson Community College (DCC) has unveiled its highly-anticipated Native Voices Exhibition. The art collection is available for viewing from November 7 through November 30 at the campus gallery, located within the Jane Carey Memorial Library, and visitors are welcome to enjoy the exhibition free of charge.
The Native Voices Exhibition was organized by DCC’s Art Instructor, Jennifer Wheeler, and features works by three professional artists, Franco Littlelight, Harvey Rattey, and Joe Walter Rattey. In addition to these gifted artists, four DCC students, Jaedyn Chandler, Serena Flatlip, Evelyn Old-Coyote, and Payton Sanders, have participated by creating their own artwork for this exhibition. Littlelight also provided a description on his art pieces, as well as an artistic statement.
Jennifer Wheeler was inspired to make another Native Voices Exhibition for Native American Heritage Month. “I knew I wanted to involve professional artists, as well as student artists,” said Wheeler. “I had Jaedyn Chandler, Serena Flatlip, Evelyn Old Coyote, and Payton Sanders in three of my courses. When I asked if they would like to participate, they all said yes! I developed the campus art gallery using funds from my art department budget, and have utilized the space to create new ways of learning about art, to educate the public who come to the different events, and for community engagement. Diverse programming is very important to me.”
A special opening reception was held on Wednesday, November 16, from 12pm to 1pm. DCC students, faculty, and administration were invited to attend the event. The President of DCC, Justin Villmer, had this to say, “Thank you for sharing this exciting opportunity with the campus. Also, thank you to the students for your passion in coordinating this!”
Wheeler mentioned some other, extremely invaluable community members that contributed toward making this exhibition a success:
Pamela Harr – Loaned her husband's bronze works, ribbon shirt, fancy shawl with embroidery, beaded pipe bag, beaded belt, and Navajo rug.
Dee Dee Robart – Loaned her uncle's oil paintings.
Al and Cindy Heidt – Loaned the Native American breastplates.
Theresa Shaffer – Loaned buckskin dresses, ribbon skirt, large fancy shawl, and Crow reading primers.
Eloise True, the Library Director at Lincoln Elementary School – Loaned children's books.
About Dawson Community College
Located on 300 acres in Glendive, MT, Dawson Community College (DCC) is a comprehensive academic community committed to providing affordable and open access to quality teaching and learning. Founded in 1940, Dawson Community College offers Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees that prepare learners for transition to and success in further degree programs. Associate of Applied Science degrees prepare learners for vocational and technical career entry, transition, and advancement. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. Please visit www.dawson.edu for more information.
Media Contact
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Phone: 406.377.9490 / Email: kkryza@dawson.edu
