From January 18 – March 15, the UUCM Library and Art Gallery will show an exhibit of works from the Visibility Through Art (VTA) project, produced by the Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribe.
From CHIRP’s website: This project was inspired by the Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribe’s desire to engage local artists to create artwork that authentically represented the Nisenan and their rich but nearly forgotten history here in Nevada County. The goal: to create conscientious art pieces that discuss the history and culture of the Original Peoples of this land.
“Giving a non-native artist permission to paint something of cultural importance is a constant struggle and is not to be seen as a “pass” for others to do the same. A Native artist recently asked me how my consent for this project might affect her and other Native artists who fight to keep cultural content in their own hands. And, while I don’t have an easy answer, I do see the importance of making it clear; this is a very special collaboration and it would not have worked without the Tribal Council having the final say in the details of the pieces.”
Much of today’s conversation revolves around the gold rush and its time and culture, and our community knows very little about the ancient Native American society of people who lived here long before the coming of the pioneers and settlers. Our deepest hope is to bring about awareness of local historic and current issues through the medium of art.
The Artworks produced through VTA are gifted to the Tribe and CHIRP by participating artists and become part of CHIRP’s growing collection.
There will be a reception for UUCM members and friends after Sunday service on January 28th, from 12:30 pm, in the Library.