James Bama (b. 1926)
A Contemporary Sioux

In contemporary western art, Indian people are often portrayed as living in the past. Using a realistic style, Bama portrayed a contemporary Indian, who maintains a relationship with the past, but also needs to find his place in contemporary society, which is dominated by the white culture. The message on the wall behind the young Sioux man echoes the theme of the lack of place for Indians in mainstream American society.

1978, oil on panel
Buffalo Bill Historical Center, William E. Weiss Contemporary Fund Purchase, acc. 19.78

To The Power of Images

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