Ho-Chunk Art: Sharing our Sacred Voice through our Art

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George Greendeer

"Mounds in Honor of My Ancestors," 2016.

In English, the name Ho-Chunk translates into "People of the Sacred Voice." It's only natural, then, that the exhibition of Ho-Chunk art opening Nov. 1 at the Overture Center's Playhouse Gallery should be named "Sharing Our Sacred Voice Through Our Art." The opening reception will feature indigenous hors d'oeuvres from Wild Bearies and Ho-Chunk entertainment by the Wisconsin Dells Singers and Dancers. The pageantry gives way to an exhibit of traditional art forms and mixed media by 14 Ho-Chunk artists, including Madison residents the late Truman Lowe and the late Harry Whitehorse, all of whom examine the life and thoughts of the Madison area's native residents. The exhibit runs through Jan. 5.

press release: A showcase of Ho-Chunk creativity, from traditional cultural items to contemporary visual art

Come celebrate the beauty of Ho-Chunk culture from 6 PM to 8 PM in Playhouse Gallery! Enjoy indigenous hors d’oeuvres prepared by Wild Bearies and see the pageantry of the Ho-Chunk culture with exhibition dances by The Wisconsin Dells Singers and Dancers celebrating the beauty of Ho-Chunk people.

The original peoples of the Madison area are the Ho-Chunk. In English Ho-Chunk translates to People of the Sacred Voice. Despite the arduous times faced by the Ho-Chunk, their culture and creativity has endured. While there is no word for art in the Ho-Chunk language, there are words that describe beauty and goodness. These qualities will fill the space of the Playhouse Gallery. Contemporary mixed media art will be juxtaposed with traditional Ho-Chunk art forms that blend natural materials obtained through local foraging and harvest and paired with commercial art products that reflect our adaptive lifeways.

Fourteen Ho-Chunk artists from Wisconsin and beyond will provide a broad perspective of the values and traditions of their heritage. In respect of tribal elders and creative trailblazers, the art of long-time Madison residents Truman Lowe (1944 – 2019) and Harry Whitehorse (1927 – 2017) will highlight this exhibit. The contributions made by these elders have inspired countless contemporary Ho-Chunk artists to continue our legacy of preserving our culture through the arts.

Featured artists include:

Levi Blackdeer – Simone Brown – Alvena Foss – George Greendeer – Sidney Hall, Jr. – Tom Jones – Rita Kingswan – Josie Lee – Kelly Logan – Truman Lowe – Henry Payer – Christopher Sweet – Melanie Tallmadge Sainz – Harry Whitehorse