MENDOCINO CO., 10/30/24 — A performance by the Sonoma County Pomo Dancers. A new collaborative tile project. A handwoven blanket by a young Native American elementary school student. These were just some of the offerings at last weekend’s Native Arts Expo at the Mendocino Art Center.
The Native Arts Expo is in its eighth year since its founding by Eric and Karen Wilder. This year’s event ranged from displays of original jewelry to an exhibit to raise awareness for Missing, Murdered, Indigenous Women to a booth aimed at getting out the Native vote. A special section of the Arts Center was devoted to youth art activities. Both days featured storytelling and artist presentations.
According to the event program, the Native Arts Expo “has grown into one of the largest gatherings on the Mendocino Coast, featuring over 40 talented Indigenous artists and performers” and is “a platform for dialogue, for healing, and for celebrating the resilience and strength of Indigenous peoples.”
Although there was a festival atmosphere, one of the most serious exhibits was created by artist Linda Lawson, featuring rows of red dresses “to honor missing and slain Indigenous victims and to call their spirits home.” In her description Lawson explains that “we wear red as a call to demand justice and preventative action.”
There was much more to be inspired by, including a gallery of blankets woven by some very young students.
History combined with whimsy in a new collaborative tile project by Pomo artists Bonnie Lockhart, Meyo Marrufo and Eric Wilder. The new mural depicts part of the Pomo cultural landscape, including a sea otter holding a soon-to-be-consumed sea urchin.
And many, many people talked to the artists about their work — exactly what the founders hoped when they created the Expo, an opportunity for Native art to be seen, and Native artists to make connections with an appreciative public.
Below, please find additional images from the event.
