The National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, DC is currently showcasing a groundbreaking exhibition titled “Water’s Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe.” This retrospective honors the legacy of acclaimed artist Truman Lowe (Hoocąk [Ho-Chunk]), featuring nearly 50 captivating sculptures and drawings that delve into Lowe’s cultural traditions, memory, and affinity for water and place.
The exhibition marks the first time that many of Truman Lowe’s monumental sculptures and significant works from public and private collections have been brought together under one roof. With 28 pieces on loan from the National Museum of the American Indian, visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Lowe’s profound artistic vision.
Rebecca Head Trautmann, the exhibition curator, expressed the significance of Lowe’s art in reflecting on the natural landscapes and cultural heritage of his upbringing. She mentioned, “Truman Lowe’s art reflects on the waters and woodlands of his home, as well as family and cultural traditions, memory and knowledge.”
Truman Lowe’s impact extended beyond his artistic endeavors; he also made significant contributions as a museum curator, university educator, and mentor to emerging artists. Over his 35-year tenure teaching sculpture at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Lowe influenced generations of artists, scholars, and curators. Additionally, his role as the founding curator of contemporary art at the National Museum of the American Indian expanded the museum’s contemporary art collection.
The exhibition has received generous support from institutions like Bank of America, the Henry Luce Foundation, the Terra Foundation for American Art, Ameriprise Financial, John and Meryl Lavine, Greg and Cathy Tibbles, and Leslie A. Wheelock. These contributions have ensured the success of the showcase and the celebration of Truman Lowe’s artistic legacy.
Accompanying the exhibition is an insightful catalog that delves into Lowe’s life, career, and artistic process. Featuring over 100 images and intimate insights, the catalog explores themes of moving water, woodland structures, memory and knowledge, and landscape and place that are prevalent in Lowe’s work. Scholarly essays contextualize Lowe’s art within his personal history and cultural heritage, shedding light on the resilience of the Hoocąk people and their connection to their ancestral homeland.
Visitors to the National Museum of the American Indian have until January 2027 to experience “Water’s Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe” firsthand. For those interested in learning more about the exhibition and Truman Lowe’s profound impact on American art, visit AmericanIndian.si.edu.
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