KEYWORDS: Traditional Stories, myths, oral histories, stories of the Haudenosaunee people, Iroquois confederacy, Sky Woman, Haudenosaunee artists, six nations of the Iroquois Confederacy, Stone Quarry Hill Art Park in Cazenovia New York, Indians, Contemporary Haudenosaunee Art and Traditional Stories, Haudenosaunee culture, Haudenosaunee creation story
For generations, myths have thrived as oral histories, serving as vital conduits connecting the past with the present, the tangible with the ethereal. The rich tapestry of narratives belonging to the Haudenosaunee people – the individuals who constitute the six nations of the Iroquois Confederacy – are not merely imaginative flights of fancy, but robust historical accounts. These stories, steeped in symbolism and cultural significance, resonate with enduring themes of humility, resilience, and the age-old battle between good and evil. The exhibit, "Creation: Contemporary Haudenosaunee Art and Traditional Stories," provides a compelling visual journey into this world.
Central New Yorkers had the opportunity to immerse themselves in an enlightening exhibition showcasing over four dozen artworks crafted by 18 Haudenosaunee artists. This collection, inspired by the traditional stories of their heritage, was on display at Stone Quarry Hill Art Park in Cazenovia. The exhibition, aptly titled "Creation: Contemporary Haudenosaunee Art and Traditional Stories," offered contemporary visual interpretations of the oral traditions cherished by the people of the six nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. This article delves into the exhibit and its impact on the community.
The meticulous curation of the exhibition was entrusted to Carol Ann Lorenz, a faculty member at Colgate University and curator of exhibitions, ethnographic, and contemporary collections at the Longyear Museum, also at Colgate University. Her expertise ensured a cohesive and insightful presentation of the artworks.
Lorenz also penned the essays featured in the show’s informative catalogue, further enriching the visitor experience. In addition, she crafted the excellent label copy accompanying each artwork. These didactic labels proved crucial, as the stories that served as the wellspring for these creations were likely unfamiliar to many viewers. Lorenz’s writing effectively bridged the gap, connecting the visual representation to the underlying narrative. The importance of Traditional Stories cannot be overstated in this context.
Two narratives stand out as cornerstones of Haudenosaunee lore: the Creation story and the legend detailing the establishment of the Iroquois Confederacy or League. The Creation Story is a key element of the exhibit. However, the artists also explored other significant stories, including that of the Three Sisters (corn, beans, and squash), a selection of morality tales, and a contemporary narrative addressing the preservation of traditions in the face of rapid social change.
The artists employed a diverse array of two- and three-dimensional media to depict these tales. Stone carvings, ceramics, pastels, acrylics, textiles, photography, and mixed media all found their place in the exhibition, demonstrating the breadth of artistic talent within the Haudenosaunee community. The styles ranged from representational to abstract to conceptual, but the human figure consistently assumed a prominent compositional role in virtually every piece. The influence of Traditional Stories is evident in the diversity of styles.
While the quality of the works inevitably varied, even the less technically refined pieces held their own, bolstered by the power and significance of the accompanying narrative. The narratives added depth and context to the works.
The Creation story, a complex and multifaceted tale of survival, conflict, and triumph, provided artists with a rich source of inspiration. They selected key moments from the story’s intricate tapestry to represent in their art. The story is a key element of the Haudenosaunee culture.
The opening chapters of this epic narrative were imaginatively interpreted in Shelly Niro’s (Mohawk, Turtle Clan) set of four large pastels (63 by 50 1/2 inches): "Loving It," "Preparing for the Fall," "Preparing for What’s to Come," and "Losing My Stuff." These vibrant paintings masterfully captured the range of emotions experienced by Sky Woman as she plummeted to Earth through a gaping hole in the sky. Niro’s work exemplifies the creative engagement with Traditional Stories.
David Lee Quinn (Lakota-Cayuga-Cherokee, Deer Clan) continued the story in his painting titled "Sky Woman Symmetry," which depicts a flock of geese catching Sky Woman and gently placing her on the back of an enormous turtle. The image is striking and memorable.
Kyle Shenandoah (Onondaga, Snipe Clan) picked up the narrative in his painting, "Sky Woman," portraying otters and beavers diving to the water’s bottom to retrieve soil, which they then piled atop the turtle’s back to create Earth. This moment is pivotal in the creation story.
These examples offer just a glimpse of the diverse interpretations that visitors could expect to encounter when exploring these centuries-old myths and legends. The exhibit showcased the enduring relevance of Traditional Stories.
The Haudenosaunee people continue to view these stories as guiding lights in their lives, offering wisdom and direction in navigating the complexities of the modern world. The stories help guide the present.
Through the eyes of artists, such as those included in this exhibition, these timeless tales not only remain fresh and relevant, but also become delightfully accessible to a wider audience. The exhibit made the stories approachable and engaging. The influence of Traditional Stories helps connect the past and present.
The exhibit "Creation: Contemporary Haudenosaunee Art and Traditional Stories" at Stone Quarry Hill Art Park served as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of Haudenosaunee culture and the profound influence of its oral traditions. By showcasing contemporary artistic interpretations of these ancient stories, the exhibition not only provided a platform for Haudenosaunee artists but also fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation of their rich cultural heritage among a broader audience. The role of Traditional Stories is essential to the Haudenosaunee people.
The careful curation by Carol Ann Lorenz, coupled with the informative catalogue essays and label copy, ensured that visitors were able to connect with the artworks on a deeper level, understanding the historical and cultural context behind each piece. The diversity of artistic styles and media further enhanced the exhibition’s appeal, demonstrating the creative vitality of the Haudenosaunee artistic community. The exhibit offered something for everyone.
Ultimately, "Creation: Contemporary Haudenosaunee Art and Traditional Stories" succeeded in its mission to bridge the gap between the past and the present, allowing these timeless tales to resonate with contemporary audiences and reminding us of the enduring power of storytelling and artistic expression. The exhibit was a success.