The artworks featured in the “Looking Back, Moving Forward: A Gallery Retrospective of Miniatures” show currently featured at Exhibit C Gallery may be small, but the talent behind them is anything but.
“In this exhibit, we knew we wanted to extend an invitation to all the incredibly accomplished artists who have partnered with Exhibit C over the past 10 years,” notes Alexandra Bivens, Exhibit C Gallery manager.
“The goal was to showcase and celebrate the diversity in First American art while also extending a heartfelt thank you to these artists who have each played a pivotal role in the growth and success of Exhibit C.”
Forty-six artists answered the call with art pieces ranging from sculptures and pottery to paintings and glasswork. The art reflects landscapes, Southeastern iconography, animals and floral designs in various mediums, including oil, pencil, resin and ink. Three-dimensional works include a miniature tea set, cement cast arrowheads and fused glass bowls. Several pieces use mixed media with ribbons, beads, wood and other materials to create a single work of art.
“In these art pieces, viewers see the stories, legends, practices and teachings of numerous First American tribes and cultures,” Alexandra said. “Each piece offers a glimpse into indigenous cultures, showcasing intricate details and symbolism that evoke a profound sense of cultural heritage and artistic innovation.”
“We hope visitors will connect with the craftsmanship and narratives woven into each piece, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding for First American art,” she added.
“‘Looking Back, Moving Forward: A Gallery Retrospective of Miniatures’ is a fantastic opportunity for children and adults alike to explore an array of artists and their creative expressions,” Alexandra said. “The miniatures offer a unique perspective to the larger pieces of art that one may encounter at galleries and museums.”
With over 150 individual pieces in this exhibit, the viewer can explore First American art in various ways, such as color, subject and technique.
Artists like Pat Couts (Comanche,) Natalie Miller (Chickasaw) and Alicia Saltina Marie Roedell-Clark (Caddo) use color in their art to tell their stories.
Pat, whose piece, Nature’s Circle,” is in the miniature show, says her main inspiration is color.
“I love how the colors can mimic nature and tell a story in the way they merge together,” she said.
Natalie considers her love of color as what draws people to her work. Her works occasionally include nature elements, as in her colorful piece in the exhibit.
Alicia Saltina Marie has three pieces in the show. “Little Rabbit,” “Little Bear” and “Little Coyote” showcase her enjoyment of sharing visual stories of her culture.
“I love that anyone can relate to the art through the emotion, color, design or the story,” she said. “It feels like I’m completing a circle of life when I am able to connect my visual stories to a view that thoroughly enjoys them.”
Alexandra describes the variety of mediums and subject matter in these art pieces as “a true testament to the rich cultural tapestry of First American traditions and creativity.” The exhibiting artists’ desire to share their art with future generations is an encouragement to try an art form.
“I really would like people to take away a feeling of freedom and joy from my art,” said Chickasaw artist Kate Wiley. “I hope to encourage others to try an art form, any kind, to find what you enjoy doing in life.”
Kate has three pieces in the show, each with a resin pour finish.
This exhibit will be the last show that takes place in Exhibit C Gallery’s current residence in Bricktown before relocating to the Horizons District in early 2025.
“This exhibit symbolizes a condensed yet comprehensive reflection of Exhibit C Gallery’s evolution over the last decade honoring the profound contributions of these artists who helped pave the way for our expansion into new horizons,” Alexandra said.
“Looking Back, Moving Forward: A Gallery Retrospective of Miniatures” is open at Exhibit C Gallery, 1 E. Sheridan Ave., through Oct. 31. All artists’ works are for sale. For more information, call 405.767.8900 or visit online at ExhibitCGallery.com.
Exhibit C Gallery is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is free and open to the public. The gallery is the perfect educational stop for families to introduce their children to art and, specifically, to First American art.
“In these art pieces, viewers see the stories, legends, practices and teachings of several different First American tribes and cultures.”
“This exhibit symbolizes a condensed yet comprehensive reflection of Exhibit C Gallery’s evolution over the last decade honoring the profound contributions of these artists who helped pave the way for our expansion into new horizons.”