GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP — Starting Sept. 17, Stockton University will bolster and celebrate Indigenous cultures through interactive workshops and a new art exhibition titled “Indigenous Approaches, Sustainable Futures,” which highlights the work of more than 25 local and international Indigenous artists. The exhibit, which is open to the public, will be displayed in the university’s Art Gallery.
The first workshop features artists Jeremy Dennis of the Shinnecock Indian Nation, and Denise “Bright Dove” Ashton-Dunkley and Tyrese “Bright Flower” Gould Jacinto of the Nanticoke/Lenni Lenape Tribal Nation, who will conduct an intimate exhibition tour displayed on two floors of the Stockton Art Gallery. The exhibition is now open for viewing until Nov. 12.
In addition, Gould Jacinto will introduce participants to the art and history of gourd painting. The workshop is an extension of the exhibited gourd art series “Seeds of My Ancestors.” According to Gould Jacinto, the series explores the relationship between “land, identity and sustainability.”
“Each piece in this collection begins with a seed, a symbol of life, continuity and ancestral knowledge passed down through generations,” Gould Jacinto said. “The journey from seed to gourd reflects our deep connection to the land, a connection that nurtures and sustains us as we encourage and sustain it in return.”
Born in Bridgeton, Gould Jacinto is the daughter of Phyllis “Red Deer" and Chief Mark "Quiet Hawk" Gould, who was among a core group in the 1970s that initiated the modern-day structure of the ancient family. Tyrese "Bright Flower" was, therefore, immersed in ancient tribal arts from an early age.
Mariana Smith, associate professor of Art and co-organizer for the programs, said the initiative will serve as “a catalyst for an engaged conversation” across disciplines and departments on campus.
“The objective of this exhibition and corresponding events is to represent the artists who are actively engaged in shaping the contemporary USA cultural landscape. ‘Indigenous Approaches, Sustainable Futures’ and related programming affirm Stockton University's commitment to honor and work with Indigenous communities,” Smith said.
Upcoming Events
• Artist Talk & Workshop – Tuesday, Sept. 17, beginning at noon and 2:30 p.m., respectively
• Seed Swap and Printing Workshop – Friday, Sept. 27
• Indigenous Peoples Day – Monday, Oct. 14
• Natural Plants Dye Workshop – Tuesday, Oct. 15
• Preserving Your Harvest by Freezing/Drying Your Herbs – Sunday, Oct. 20
• Closing Reception – Tuesday, Nov. 12
To learn more about the exhibit, see https://www.stockton.edu/art-gallery/index.html
The gallery is open noon to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Exhibitions are free and open to the public.
