Programs
These multi-year programs, inspired by exhibits and ASM collections, are independent of exhibit schedules.
Click on links under each program to view related materials.
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Honoring Traditions 2017-2018
Master Artists: Sally Black (Navajo basketmaker), Terrol Dew Johnson (Tohono O'odham basketmaker), Jessica Lomatewaima (Hopi basketmaker), Shelden Nuñez Velarde (Jicarilla Apache potter), Marilyn Ray (Acoma potter), and Gwen Setalla (Hopi potter)
Emerging Artist Interns: Rachel Espinoza (Salt River Pima-Maricopa), Twila Guerrero (Salish/Kootenai), Jeremy Johns (Tohono/Akimel O’odham), Adrian Morris (Navajo/Laguna), Harrison Preston (Tohono O'odham), Kathleen Vance (Tohono O’odham)
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Six master Native potters and basket weavers, many with pieces in ASM’s collections, served three-day residencies at ASM. During their residencies, they engaged with museum staff, the general public and conducted learning exchanges with an emerging Native artist cohort. Each master artist had access to museum collections, conducted demonstrations at the museum, presented a talk about their work and influences, demonstrated and/or taught at a family program, taught an intensive one-day artist workshop for the internship cohort, and participated in an interview with one of the emerging artists.
This cohort of six emerging Native artist interns received an introduction to museum work that included behind the scenes tours, object conservation techniques, collections care, and planning and production of museum public programs for family and adult audiences. The interns assisted the master artists in their presentations and at the family programs, and each intern created a video interview with a master artist. They participated in an intensive workshop with each master artist. Together the interns developed and led a family program, a panel discussion for the public, and a small pop-up exhibit. They each conducted demonstrations at the museum as well, and were interviewed by the project directors. All interviews of master and emerging artists are available on ASM's YouTube channel.
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Emerging Artist Intern program flyer
Emerging Artist Intern family program flyer
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Impact
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From Emerging Artist Intern evaluations:
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On exploring Native American tradition, innovation, and presentation by cultural institutions:
Kathy Vance: I have a responsibility to represent my culture with respect and it’s ok to move forward with my own ideas or to step out of my comfort zone. ... Before I really felt that as a Tohono O’odham potter that it was up to us as a people to continue doing our pottery and passing that on to the next generation, but when I became a part of this program, it made me realize that we need to work together with other people to make sure that happens. I didn’t see that before, so this program really helped me to see the collaboration between the museum, the National Endowment for the Arts and that we all need to work together to make sure this continues.
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Jeremy Johns wrote: I think the indigenous peoples and cultures must be instrumental in developing culturally accurate and appropriate programs.
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On strengthening Emerging Artist career opportunities:
Twila Guerrero: My experience as an ASM Emerging Artist has given me a foundation to build upon. I now have a better understanding of the background functions that are needed for a museum to operate.… The past 9 months have helped me to fine-tune current artist processes while learning new ones. This program has opened a door of opportunity for me to work on a project for the Tohono O'odham Museum.
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On connecting Native American artists to their cultural traditions:
Rachel Espinosa: The program helped me strengthen my connection with my heritage and inspired my paintings and also inspired me to pursue basketry.
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Adrian Morris: This internship has opened up a different world. I hadn’t really known about the art world in a museum setting and the use of grants and internships, working with other partnerships and that interaction, and the way that all of us represent our people and are able to communicate that. As creative people or as artists sometimes you have a platform that you’re able to use to communicate more positive ideas like being a mentor for young people.
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Master Artist Gwen Setalla, wrote
The experience I gained now has made me comfortable to teach a group of students. ….I have been in contact with several interns.…to see them emerge into Masters. [I] still share ideas and give advice and I am more than willing to do so for as long as I can. I’ve made a lifetime bonding friendship and thank the program for making it happen.
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Honoring Traditions 2021-2023
Master Artists: Porfirio Gutiérrez (Zapotec weaver and natural dye specialist) and Barbara Ornelas (Navajo weaver)
Emerging Artist Interns: Mariah Claw (Navajo), Harrison Preston (Tohono O'odham), Desiree Rinehart (Yaqui)
A cohort of emerging and master artists and museum professionals have formed a community of practice to learn about Zapotec natural dying and Zapotec and Navajo weaving traditions, as well as skills associated with the museum profession. They are viewing collections and engaging in skills workshops on object handling, conservation, and exhibit design and production. They are talking with curators and museum professionals at Arizona museums, Navajo Nation Museum and Tucson galleries.
Central to the program are two field study cultural emersion trips to Oaxaca and to the Navajo Nation. Led by master artist Barbara Ornelas in a series of day-long workshops, the emerging artists are creating small weavings on Navajo continuous warp looms using the wool they dyed with cochineal, indigo, and other plant-based natural dyes under Gutiérrez’s tutorage. The master artists are creating pieces inspired by what they learn of each other's traditions, values, and practices.
The emerging artists are documenting their learning in a digital journal. Their documentation along with their weavings and the master artists’ pieces will become the basis for an exhibit developed by the interns with ASM’s exhibit staff. The exhibit will be displayed at ASM and the Navajo Nation Museum, where it may be augmented by NNM collections. The interns will also plan and produce related public programming with guidance from the museum’s educators.
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Impact
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Comments the Emerging Artist Interns shared in an evaluation survey:
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Desiree Rinehart: I think the biggest thing is how much this program has shifted how I view myself as an artist. Getting to learn from master weavers and also be in process with other artists has given me a confidence boost and feel like I can actually consider myself as a working artist. ...This program has re-invigorated my desire for creating. For a while, I felt stuck and distanced from art but since learning how to weave and dye with natural materials I have found a new sense of purpose and relationship in my process especially in the context of creating as an Indigenous person.
One of the biggest things that this experience has solidified for me is that regardless of physical distance and differing histories, there is so much more overlap in our unique stories and understandings of the world, our lands, and ourselves. It has been so special to learn what is different between us, but I have wholly cherished the solidarity and innate understanding across cultures. The land has a way of guiding us back to ourselves—this time, for me, it was through finding the threads inside myself that were undone by internalized colonialism and capitalistic lifeways that disconnect us from ourselves and each other.
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Mariah Claw: This internship has improved my confidence in calling myself an artist. Everything that I do is intertwined with my identity as a Dine asdzaan, including my art. I take inspiration from the natural world, which includes my body, and weave it into my rugs. ...This program provided me with teachers who are not only masters in their craft but also of teaching. It is in these relationships that my knowledge about weaving and dyeing has deepened and broadened.
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Harrison Preston: Overall the program has given me a deep appreciation for natural dyeing and weaving. Like all craft forms, it starts with the knowledge formulated and passed down generations. Although we have only brushed the surface of textile weaving, with all the various materials, processes and techniques available, I can only do right by continuing this journey and expanding my knowledge. ...I’d recommend a program like this to anyone. I’ve previously stated there is a need for opportunities like this. Even if it’s smaller and not as intensive. In my opinion it shows that crafts and the people that create them have value beyond monetary needs. It gives native artists and craftspeople opportunities to learn from and work with others. It also shows that institutions like ASM aren’t just about the past…
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As a final activity in the internship, the interns worked with me on developing an online and traveling panel exhibit, which was debuted in summer 2023. Weaving Has a Heartbeat is a heartfelt reflection on the importance of relationships and the connections between Indigenous people, their worldviews and traditions, and how these are woven into their art. The exhibit was the culmination of ASM’s two-year mentorship program Honoring Traditions, which focused on gaining skills in weaving, natural dyeing, and museum work. Included in the exhibit is a collaborative textile, "Two Weaving Worlds Honoring Traditions," by master artists Barbara Ornelas (Diné) and Porfirio Gutiérrez (Zapotec).
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"In thinking about this exhibit, we chose to highlight the relationship-building aspects of our work. What happens during the slowness of warping, weaving, and natural dyeing? Where did our conversations around the table meander to? How does our creativity reimagine the world of Indigenous artistry? Join us as we reflect on our experience learning from master artists, one another, and the world around us."
--Emerging Artist Interns
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Online exhibit
Meet the Curators program flyer
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Native Eyes, 2004-2017
The Native Eyes programs were varied and linked to many themes and partners. They included film screenings with discussions; family programs with related hands-on activities; skill workshops such as on stop motion video creation, storyboarding, and acting; and workshops using film to explore identity, culture, history, water, and to inspire activism; and even music concerts, honoring ceremonies, and a walk for water. Native Eyes brought Indigenous filmmakers and leaders to Tucson to present to general and specifically Native audiences. Programs were produced on the University of Arizona campus, at the Loft Cinema, Grand Cinemas, Tohono O'odham Nation Museum and Culture Center, Pascua Yaqui Education building, Ha:san Preparatory and Leadership School, San Xavier Farm, San Xavier District Office, and in downtown Tucson.
Programs were produced with a core team, which I led, but operated cooperatively. Core team members were from Arizona State Museum, Tohono O'odham Nation Museum and Culture Center, Pascua Yaqui Computer Clubhouse, and Indigenous Strategies. We collaborated with many, including the Smithsonian Institution, Loft Cinema, Tucson Film Office, UA College of Public Health, UA College of Law, UA departments of American Indian Studies and Women and Gender Studies, Hanson Film Institute, Tucson Chinese Culture Center, San Xavier District of the Tohono O'odham Nation, among others. Funding was provided by Arizona Humanities, Tohono O'odham Utilities, Desert Diamond Casinos and Entertainment, and various UA Department and individual donors.
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Impact
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Evaluations of the programs that combined film screenings with discussions captured that attendees learned new ideas about the topics presented and appreciated having access to the diverse Native perspectives offered. Often they expressed wanting to learn even more and get involved with the issues as result of their attendance at the programs. At one such program that juxtaposed Native activism of the 1970s with that of today, 79% of those who filled out the evaluation said that as a result of attending, they felt inspired to work in their own community, or in the community where they currently live​.
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The more intense Water is Life and Native Activism programs brought together Indigenous elders, youth, teachers, leaders, and tradition bearers. At the desire of attendees, the programs kept growing, sprouting one program from another. A film screening led to a youth workshop, which led to a community Walk for Water, which led to more film screenings and an elder and more youth workshops. We did pre and post attendee evaluation for the youth Water is Life programs and found that upon completion of the day’s activities, the interest in participation in future water projects grew. From the evaluation of the Elder Water is Life program, we learned that 87% were more interested in sharing ideas about water with their community and 74% were more interested in sharing ideas about water with their youth. The Native Activism workshop had 80 attendees, primarily by Native high school students. On the evaluation form 85% stated they were more likely to to get involved with Native community or world issues. Many also were able to articulate what issues they were interested in, how they proposed to make a difference, what their role would be, and what resources they would need to do so.
In an email to me after the program, Rebecca Cohen, teacher from Baboquivari High School on the Tohono O'odham Nation, wrote:
The program definitely had an impact on some of our students--as you remember, they were very vocal at the end, speaking out about their personal struggles with mental health/substance abuse issues. I think it was a good opportunity for them to express themselves very openly in an environment in which they clearly felt very safe. That does not happen that often. It has also been part of a larger growth in these students’ consciousness of political and social issues effecting them.
Melodie Lopez of Indigenous Strategies wrote in a report about the Water is Life programs:
Native Eyes’ Water is Life programming has resonated not only for our local communities, but has drawn participation from central Arizona (Ak-Chin) and as far as Oklahoma, as well as diverse students attending the University of Arizona. It combines intense Native youth focused workshops with public screenings and discussions. It is a program designed and participated in partnership with the Native Eyes consortium and community partners. This co-ownership ensures the program resonates with participants and is flexible enough to embrace different needs and desires each year. It is a program worth continuing.
Sample program flyers
Honoring the Power of Coming Together Films Flyer
Native Youth Activism Think Tank Flyer
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Culture Craft Saturdays, 2003-present
Sample program flyers
Culture Craft Saturday-Open House Flyer
Culture Craft Saturday-Hopi Flyer
Culture Craft Saturday-Music Flyer
Culture Craft Saturday-Honoring Traditions Flyer
Culture Craft Saturday-Retablos Flyer
Culture Craft Saturday-ASM Birthday Flyer
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Impact
Through audience research, I discovered that many of the visitors came repeatedly to these. For some, the programs were their first introduction to the museum and it made them more comfortable and as a result led them to visit the museum at other times. Teachers stated that they valued being able to try the arts and writing activities and to see them being done by people of different ages and abilities.
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Just recently I was stopped by a woman on the street. Julie Rinehart was very excited and proceeded to tell me what an impact the CCS programs had on her, both professionally and personally. She came many times over the years--even telling me the topic of some of the programs she had attended many years ago. She brought her daughter and stated that the CCS programs are the reason her daughter as an adult is now interested in arts and cultures. Ms. Rinehart incorporated the activities into her classes at Doolen Middle School. She attributes her interaction with master artists and tradition bearers at CCS programs for making her comfortable enough to seek out and invite cultural specialists to her own classroom. I was amazed that after so many years she recognized me and was grateful to hear the impact the programs had for her family and students.
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A Navajo high school student in another UA program (KEYS) said he pursued the opportunity because his grandmother had been invited as a weaver to one of the CCS programs. His family felt comfortable with him attending the residency KEYS program because they had been treated well during their time at ASM and thought well of UA.
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Culture Craft Saturdays (CCS) began as a monthly family program. Today, CCS programs are offered a couple times a semester. Often linked to exhibit topics or to particular collections or research areas, these interactive programs are popular with diverse audiences, from young children to grandparents, museum members, refugee families, and teachers. K-12 teachers who attend are offered professional development credit and a resource packet linked to the activities and theme. While developed under my leadership and direction, many of the CCS programs were produced collaboratively with Assistant Director of Education Heather Ingram or other educators on staff. UA students, Honoring Tradition interns, and community volunteers help with program components. During the Pandemic, these programs were suspended, but will be offered again in fall 2022.
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Today, I continue to offer programs inspired by the CCS ones, usually tying them to an exhibit opening, ASM's annual open house, or programs such as Honoring Traditions. As my position evolved to lead exhibits as well as public programs, and with various staff reductions, the CCS programs were offered less frequently. These programs take research, development, preparation of materials for activities and teacher packets, as well as a funding source. I write grants and include them in exhibit budgets. To produce these weekend programs, education, visitor services, and security staff, as well as volunteers, are needed.
Zoom Talk Series
Sample program flyers
Zoom Talk Series-Borders Native Flyer
Zoom Talk Series-Borders Fiction Flyer
Zoom Talk Series-Land Water Flyer
Zoom Talk Series-Chinese Flyer
Zoom Talk Series-WIC Navajo Flyer
Zoom Talk Series-WIC series postcard
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Impact
Through evaluations and casual conversations with people in the community, I know these Zoom talks were appreciated by those who attended, and have drawn visitors to the museum.
Comments include:
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This talk was so stimulating. It makes me want to read everything I can and learn so much more about Southwestern rugs and tapestries. Thanks to everyone involved in putting it together and presenting it! I forwarded the museum information to my group.
–Kim Foster (program evaluation)
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I met you Saturday at the museum at the wonderful sarape exhibition. Just want to relate to you again how great the zooms have been since the beginning of the pandemic. The subject matter has been very varied and interesting, and the speakers have been quite knowledgeable. I hope you will continue to present more zooms, as your following has been dramatic. Thank you again for providing us with these educational opportunities. I am sure that many others will agree with me.
–Gila Ben-Jamin (email)
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I enjoyed the zoom presentations so much that I had to come visit the museum on my trip to Phoenix. Thank you for the great programs and I love the wonderful museum.
–Susan Relecom, London, Ontario, Canada (note left at museum)
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I really appreciated all your organization and thoughtfulness. Congrats to you on an excellent series!
Let me know if there are ways we can collaborate in the future. Miriam Jorgensen, Research Director, Native Nations Institute (Program Presenter)
Thank you for hosting the series of seminars: “Border Barriers: History and Impact.” It was a truly remarkable series of talks from noted experts on border barriers and their impact on people and environments, especially the US/Mexico wall. Robert J Curran, Ph.D., Dept. of Hydrology and Atmospheric Science, University of Arizona (program evaluation)
Lisa, you are an excellent moderator.
(Attendee) Janie Winkler
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Thank you for providing top-notch lectures with friendly and informative presenters. - Sydney Dudikoff (program evaluation)
Heartfelt thanks to all of you for helping to make this happen. Very informative! -Ali Morse (program evaluation)
Thank you so much for this series - it has been informative and highly interesting! -Lynn Ratener, ASM docent (program evaluation)
The Pandemic necessitated shifting from in-person programming to online public programming. Audiences also desired increased programming. Presenting programming via Zoom reduced costs and allowed me to reach out to a bigger pool of speakers, it also increased program attendance and in some cases, attendees became museum members. K-12 teachers who attended received professional development credit as well, and one is now joining us on a travel tour I have organized related to this year's topic.
In fall 2020, I expanded a three-part lecture series about borders to eight virtual talks with thirteen speakers. 1,700 people joined us from their homes across the U.S. and Canada. In the spring 2021, I continued to offer the Zoom Talk Series. For these I received support from the Arizona Humanities and featured speakers focused on topics related to Arizona history and culture, including Indian Boarding Schools, Chinese settlers, African American culture, diverse foodways, among others. Over 3,000 people zoomed in for these talks. In fall 2021 the museum re-opened, but I continued to offer the Zoom Talk Series, this time thematically related to the Wrapped in Color: Legacies of the Mexican Sarape exhibit. 1,300 people attended these--lower numbers, which could be due to the country opening up or to the topic, which had a more specific interest focus.
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For each Zoom talk series, created a PowerPoint introduction and moderated the programs. In addition, I determined themes, researched speakers, and created content for the flyers. I also wrote an evaluation survey and reviewed the responses. Almost all of the Zoom talks are available on ASM's YouTube channel.
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For each Zoom talk series ASM head of marketing helped with technical aspects. We also worked together to offer ASM audiences access to Smithsonian Affiliations Zoom programs.
Laura Hansen of the Smithsonian Affiliations, emailed about ASM’s participation in hosting their lecture series:
You two have raised the bar considerably for our affiliates participating! We love it!!! Thank you! You’re going to be the talk of our staff meeting tomorrow. What MVPs you both were!
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Honoring Traditions:
Connecting Master and Emerging Artists
The first version of Honoring Traditions was developed and produced in partnership with ASM's Assistant Director of Education, Heather Ingram, from 2017-2018. The second one, where I am the sole project director, began in 2021 and will culminate in 2023. This program has been awarded three grants from the National Endowment for the Arts.
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