By: The Dirt

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time set aside to honor the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous people.

In Yolo County, we acknowledge the land we exist on has been the home of the Patwin people for thousands of years. There are three federally recognized Patwin tribes: Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community, Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation, and Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation. 

Yolo County is also home to the Gorman Museum of Native American Art, one of the few university museums in the country—and the only one in California—with a focus on contemporary Native American and Indigenous art. 

Brenda Mallory: In the Absence of Instruction

On display right now, a new solo exhibition by Brenda Mallory including prints, multimedia, and installation art that delves into the relationship between power and identity.

Mallory’s mixed media sculptural works consist of a variety of materials including cloth, fibers, beeswax, and found objects. Her work addresses ideas of interference and disruption in long-established systems of nature and human cultures.

Mallory lives in Portland, Oregon but grew up in Oklahoma and is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. Her practice is deeply informed by lived experiences, and the histories of survival inherent to Indigenous peoples.

New this Fall: A selection of Diné (Navajo) tapestries on display for a limited time. Featured works by: D.Y. Begay, Ursula Begay, Mary Ann King, Mary Lee, Bessie Littleben, Rena Mountain, Cindy Nez, Rosita Segaye, Louise Sheppard, & Shirley Tsinnie.