The Southern Utah Museum of Art will celebrate the opening of its newest exhibition, “Tooveep (The Land)” on Friday, Oct. 16 from 6-8 p.m., followed by a series of art activities on Saturday, Oct. 17.
The exhibition, centered around themes of cultural identity and the relationship between people and the land, will feature contemporary artwork from more than 20 Indigenous artists.
Curated by Las Vegas Paiute artist Fawn Douglas, “Tooveep” will bring together artists from the Southwest and Great Basin regions, along with nationally recognized artists whose work represents Indigenous experiences from across North America.
The name “Tooveep” comes from the Southern Paiute word meaning “the land.” Visitors can expect to see a variety of artwork, including paintings, weaving, basketry and mixed media pieces.
“I want to show work that reflects the heart of our Indigenous people,” Douglas said.
The opening reception will include a talk from Douglas, along with performances by the SUU Indigenous Student Union and the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah Youth Program.
Visitors are encouraged to wear purple in memory of Indigenous artist Jean LaMarr, whose work is also featured in the exhibition. LaMarr died on Aug. 1, 2026 in Susanville, Calif., at the age of 80.
In addition to the opening reception, SUMA will host two activities on Saturday, Oct. 17, where visitors can participate in making art.
The first activity, “Community Creates: Ledger Painting with Avis Charley,” will take place from 10 a.m. to noon. Led by contemporary Indigenous artist Avis Charley, the workshop will introduce participants to ledger painting, a traditional Indigenous art form that uses pages from accounting ledgers.
Following the workshop, SUMA will hold an open studio from noon to 4 p.m., where visitors can continue to create their own work at ledger painting at their own pace.
“Tooveep (The Land)” will remain on display at SUMA through March 6, 2027. More information about SUMA’s current exhibitions and events can be found on its website.
Author: Charlee Steed
Photo: Courtesy of SUMA
Editor: Payson Davis
arts@suunews.net