Ansleigh Mikesell
reporter3@suunews.com
Artist, Gina Adams, spoke of cultural heritage in her politically powerful presentation, The Object and the Shadow of Other People’s Stories, at Southern Utah University’s Art Insights Showcase.
Adams is referred to as an “Activist Hybrid Artist.” This unique title means her art is both contemporary, using nontraditional supplies like paint, and politically significant. Through her work, she strives to educate and inspire her audience of historical cultural disharmony.
In her presentation, Adams discussed how her art is a strong bond between herself and her ancestors. With both Colonial and Native American lineage. She explained how important keeping her cultural heritage alive has been in her life. Adams is one of the only members of her family that currently studies and applies old traditions, including the practice of their native language.
Adams’ acclaimed showcase, which she presented, is a collection of reused antique quilts with hand stitched words of broken treaties between the United States and Native American tribes. On one side of these blankets, the words are clear and colorful, and on the other, a quilted pattern splices the sentences in a disarray of fabric.
Though Adams clarified that her intent is not to shame the political leaders who wronged her ancestors. Instead, she wishes to educate all to recognize mistakes in history in order to prevent it from happening again.
The lecture, The Object and the Shadow of Other People’s Stories, is an example of the educational importance of the Art Insights Showcase. This series is hosted weekly at the SUMA building, 13 S. 300 W. at 7 p.m.
