Art: History lesson
By Mary Abbe, Star Tribune
Dyani-Reynolds-Whitehawk draws nooses and the number 38 in her flag-like painting about the Mankato event. It was, and still is, the largest mass execution in U.S. history.
Minnesota’s 150th birthday is viewed through American Indian eyes in a show at Ancient Traders Gallery.
STATES, DATES AND PLACE
What: Paintings, drawings and other art on themes of Minnesota history by more than a dozen contemporary American Indian artists.
When: 11 a.m.-6 p.m Wed.-Fri.; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat.-Sun. Ends Jan. 24.
Where: Ancient Traders Gallery, 1113 E. Franklin Av., Mpls. 612-870-6115.
Admission: Free.
Review: Inspired by the 150th anniversary of Minnesota statehood, "States" asserts the primacy of
Indians in Minnesota, recalls broken treaties and the bitter hanging of 38 Indians at Mankato in 1862. A valuable counterpoint to official sesquicentennial celebrations, the show is more educational than confrontational, with flashes of ironic humor and quiet dignity.