Friday, December 13 2024 through Friday, February 14 2025

In the Library Gallery

Opening Reception: 6-9 p.m. Friday, December 13
Closing Reception: 6-9 p.m. Friday, February 14

In-digenous Time (2024) is a selection of mixed-media artwork that demonstrates how Indigenous beadwork may progress over time as it continues to be taught and passed down through generations. Throughout time, new techniques, designs, and materials arise as humanity continues to evolve and new styles emerge. The beadwork of today takes influence from pop culture and is inspired by a continuous flow of ideas from new materials. This is a snapshot of how Indigenous designs may look in the future, emphasizing technology, bright and iridescent colors, and possible cyborgs. Traditional materials are used, such as deer hide, pipe bone (simulated), elk teeth (simulated), dentalium, and deer antlers. New materials such as spikes, chains, laser-cut crystals, rhinestone banding, and vinyl fabric are also featured in the designs. Imagine the new materials available in the future, and how they will be shaped into new designs by our youth. Indigenous peoples still prevail and shall thrive far into the future. We will continue to celebrate and enjoy our culture and traditions despite all obstacles presented to us; we will still be here.

Biography

Taraneh BigBow is a citizen of the Kiowa Tribe and is a descendant of the War Chief, Zepko-ette BigBow. Her family consists of many artists including her grandfathers, Harding and Woodrow BigBow, both of which have art displayed in galleries throughout the world. BigBow began bead working in her early twenties and is thankful to her aunt for passing down the knowledge, which has continued to be passed down for generations. Being able to express herself as an artist makes her feel connected to her Kiowa heritage and brings her great joy and peace. Recently, BigBow has begun selling her beadwork where you can find her vendoring at local powwows, and has an active social media presence, #BigBowBeads. Her work has been featured in Elle Magazine by award-winning actress Lily Gladstone modeling a pair of BigBow's beaded fringe earrings. She enjoys exploring new themes such as deep space, gothic, floral, and futuristic designs in creating her artwork.