Creating Space For Resistance and Resilience: The All My Relations Arts Gallery Returns to Programming

Image credit: Jaida Grey Eagle

Written by: Angela Two Stars

On April 10th, All My Relations gallery celebrated the opening of Uŋči Said So, a solo exhibition by Danielle SeeWalker (Húŋkpaph́a Lakota, Standing Rock). This was the first time we came together in the space after the gallery had served as a temporary immediate response space during the occupation of ICE agents in Minneapolis that resulted in the murder of two American citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

To see the smiles, the joy, and excitement from the people gathered together to experience this beautiful exhibition was in stark contrast to the fear and nervous energy that pulsated through the space just two months ago. I spent the evening visiting with audience members and reflected often in my conversations how helpful it was for the gallery to once again have art in the space. I appreciated that our small gallery space could be what the community needed at the time during Operation Metro Surge, and that part of our recovery and healing from that traumatic time involved bringing art back into the space.

Danielle created a new piece for the exhibit, Be a Good Relative, a neon sign that lights up the space. This motto is a value that I live by everyday and how we operate the AMRA gallery. Being a good relative meant providing a safe space when our neighbors needed supplies and a place to gather. Being a good relative meant housing and distributing the countless donations that were provided by our generous, caring community. Being a good relative means continuing to care for our community by offeringart to return hope and promote healing. Returning the gallery into an exhibition space provides healing. Art brings beauty to a broken world. Art provides color and light and a space for reflection. Art connects people with joy, awe, and inspiration.

Uŋči is the Lakota word for Grandmother. As Native people, we carry teachings passed on by our grandmothers. This exhibit is a reminder of the wisdom passed down and how those lessons carry us through hard times. Our grandmothers are a portrait of our resilience.

Angela Two Stars (Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate) is the Vice President of Arts and Culture and Director of All My Relations Arts.