Artist Laurie Steelink invites audiences to learn about the Acjachemen people and the creation of the artwork GATHERING POWER (Indian Market Booth). The location of the land the museum inhabits and the artist’s inclusion in the California Biennial 2022: Pacific Gold, featuring 19 artists from across the state, informed the installation’s development.

Steelink identifies as Akimel O’otham, and is a member of the Gila River Indian Community. Examining cultural roots and connections, Steelink’s work links past and present by addressing the traditional ‘Indian’ marketplaces and the emergence of Native American contemporary artists.

Join us in the gallery for an immersive experience where the artist will share a creation story addressing her practice as a Native American artist and human being, read the installation’s acknowledgement to the Acjachemen Nation, and feature special guests Adelia Sandoval and the Acjachemen Tushmal singers.

Laurie Steelink is a multidisciplinary artist who has explored connections to her Native American roots over the last decade through installations and assemblages. Born and raised in Arizona, Steelink received a BFA from the San Francisco Art Institute and an MFA from Mason Gross School of the Arts, Rutgers University. She served as a core committee member for the Many Winters Gathering of Elders held annually in San Pedro, CA since it’s revival in 2017.

Adelia Sandoval is the Spiritual Overseer (Púul) and Cultural Director for the Acjachemen Nation, the indigenous people of Orange County, CA. Sandoval shares Acjachemen culture through art, writing, storytelling and singing. A ceremonial leader, song keeper, healer and an ordained minister, she created a Tribal Women’s singing group called the Tushmaluum Heleqatuum which translates to ‘the hummingbirds that sing’.

Admission is free and open to all.
Seating available on a first come basis and gallery capacity limited.

Photo credits: Tira Howard and Mariah Doyle