Action Abstraction Redefined features paintings and works on paper from the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA) permanent collection created in the 1960s and 1970s. The artists in this exhibition challenged stereotypical expectations of Indian art by experimenting with American modern art movements such as Abstract Expressionism, Color Field and Hard-edge Painting combined with art influences from their own cultural heritage.

MoCNA is pleased to present six innovative films made by Southwestern based Native American directors and their teams of writers, producers, editors, and actors.

Holly Wilson (Delaware Tribe of Western Oklahoma/Cherokee) presents her new narrative works created in a variety of media including bronze, wood, and encaustic. Her figures serve as her storytellers to the world. They often resemble stick figures or animals with human characteristics.

Expanding Horizons highlights new abstract landscapes by Darren Vigil Gray (Jicarilla Apache/Kiowa Apache). The works reflect Gray’s personal approach to the subject “landscape,” and his spontaneous painting method inspired by abstract expressionism and his inner self.

Meeting the Clouds Halfway is a collaboration between Tohono O’odham basket weaver Terrol Dew Johnson and architects Aranda\Lasch (Ben Aranda and Chris Lasch) from Tucson and New York. The exhibition features contemporary basketry and architecture that blend traditional craft with modern design.