By Kyrra Clevenger, Eiteljorg public programs coordinator

 Ricardo Caté, b. 1964 (Santo Domingo Pueblo)
Untitled (Santa Fe Coyote)
Acrylic on canvas, 18” H x 22” W
Image credit: Addison Doty of the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian

The Eiteljorg is ready to hear visitors laugh again, and in Laughter and Resilience: Humor in Native American Art, a traveling exhibition from the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian in Santa Fe, New Mexico, visitors will experience art that is both amusing and thought-provoking. On exhibit through Aug. 8, Laughter and Resilience highlights the essential role humor plays in Native American art. Visitors not only will laugh but will also see how Native artists use humor to combat stereotypes, comment on tribal politics and critique the national scene through a wide range of artistic media. Expect tricksters, satire and parody, cartoons and whimsy, along with a full lineup of programs. Some event highlights include:

Jason Garcia (Santa Clara Pueblo/Tewa)
Image courtesy of the artist

Comic Art with Jason Garcia (Santa Clara Pueblo/Tewa)
Jason Garcia is a Tewa artist from Santa Clara Pueblo, New Mexico who often combines traditional Pueblo art forms with pop culture and comic book art. Join Jason on July 10 for a virtual workshop and learn how to tell your own compelling story through comic art. No previous experience necessary.

Kathleen Wall (Jemez Pueblo)

Virtual Artist Talks
Meet several artists featured in Laughter and Resilience.

• July 7: Gerald Clarke (Cahuilla), a sculptor and installation artist who often speaks about Native art, culture and social issues.
• July 21: Kathleen Wall (Jemez Pueblo), renowned potter who creates whimsical clay sculptures.
• July 27: 2021 Eiteljorg Fellow Steven Yazzie (Diné), a painter, multimedia and collaborative artist whose work explores issues of land as a source of identity, conflict and resource within the southwest; his talk is a members-only event. Check eiteljorg.org/events to join the virtual talks.

Live Performance
As a member of the Apsáalooke Nation, Supaman makes his home on the Crow reservation in Montana. “Supaman” is the stage name of Christian Parrish Takes the Gun, a Native American dancer and innovative hip-hop artist who has dedicated his life to empowering and spreading a message of hope, pride and resilience through his original art form. His presentation combines Native culture, comedy and urban hip-hop culture that dazzles audiences and captivates listeners. Don’t miss the chance to see Supaman perform live under The Sails at the Eiteljorg on Aug. 7. Register at eiteljorg.org/events.

Editor’s Note:  This article appeared in the June 2021 issue of Storyteller magazine.