The Trout Museum of Art, situated on Appleton’s vibrant College Avenue, has a brand new exhibition. And this one, while I contemplate a proud collection of people, ones who are indigenous to this continent, in other words, residents of a landmass Europeans named North America…anyways, this new exhibit is a reminder of how perception can totally distort the view of entire nations. The name of the exhibit is titled ‘Reclaiming Identity’.
I’m a mutt, mostly of European descent. But I’m a sliver, just a small fragment, Native American. I say Native American, because, as I’ve been taught, that title is the politically correct term. But is it? I mean, it’s better than Indian…or is it?
Think about this, the word America is derived from a European explorer: Amerigo Vespucci. Since Europeans simply came, washing away the indigenous people’s means of freedom, it still seems a tad disrespectful. What I should say is that I’m a portion Cherokee – at least I believe that’s the nation my great-great grandmother belonged to.
So if anyone asks, while admiring this collection of art, that was the collective message of these bold pieces.
It wasn’t hate driven, but rather a bold, prideful declaration.
Some were a glowing expression of self.
Others told the story of the white man’s arrival, as handed down from indigenous ancestors.
And others, while being arcane symbols, registered as original and cool.
Beyond those images, if you ventured towards the third floor, you’d stumble upon a resident artists exhibition.
To me, the reason why I haven’t heard of Laura Schneider is a bit foggy.
The same can be said for Arimasa Imaizumi.
However, I’m a bit on the fence when it comes to the work of Erica Hess.
To tell the truth, which I did in this interactive exhibit,
my time spent at the Trout Museum of Art was enlightening. I gained a new perspective, stumbled upon new artists and realized that all people want their voice to be heard…at least by someone. And through visual artistry, those voices echo in my mind as I write this post’s final words.
Safe Travels!
Midwestern Escapes 
10 responses to “Reclaiming Identity at the Trout Museum of Art”
This is a wonderful review of a museum and how people wish to be seen.
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Wonderful post. I’m like most folks–not really well informed or educated about the art world. But I think art (regardless of its form–painting, music, poetry, etc.) is very important. It’s a sort of unspoken language that can really touch our emotions/soul. It isn’t always what the artist intended that is important but what the “viewer or reader” takes from it.
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I wholly agree, Diana!
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Interesting post, Chris. It’s always good to get a different perspective on things and art is a great way to see the world through other people’s eyes.
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I agree Sue!
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To be honest, I have to work hard at understanding most art. It seems I enjoy more beautiful landscapes and other, I guess – not modern – pieces. Still, I try to expand my mind and view and try to understand the message.
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I admit, before I started blogging, I paid little attention to art. Yet, being a lover of history, being that most art depicts a cultural or personal history, whether in the distant past or a recent occurrence, I’ve learned to appreciate artistic expression. And yeah, some art is very vague or arcane, and I may see no meaning behind it at all. But I find that when I read placards, and discover the artists true intent, it becomes an ‘aha!’ moment. Not always, but sometimes, sometimes an artist can blow my mind, because maybe I understood it subconsciously yet couldn’t find the words.
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You are a better “art person” than me. But I will continue to try to keep an open mind. You make very good points!
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Thanks, Betty. Like Diana said, art is what you make of it. I don’t think anyone is a better ‘art person’ because it’s an extremely subjective medium. I just know what I like and why I like it. I’m sure you do too.
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By the way, thanks for the comment!!
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