Connecting Past and Future Through Indigenous Artistic Innovation With Al Hubbard

“I think of my paintings as kind of a poem.” Al Hubbard

Uncover the unexpected truth about indigenous contemporary art! Discover how one artist's work is revolutionizing storytelling through innovative, progressive art. Learn the surprising impact of indigenous knowledge in modern creativity. Stay tuned as we unravel the story behind art that's more than just a painting—it's a powerful poem. Al Hubbard, a contemporary indigenous artist of Navajo and Northern Arapaho descent, has established a unique artistic identity rooted in his rich cultural heritage. His subsequent move to the Wind River Reservation further deepened his appreciation and respect for tribal cultures, significantly shaping his personal and artistic trajectory. His innovative approach reflects his connection to tradition and a commitment to preserving and evolving indigenous knowledge through contemporary artistic expression, making a substantial impact on the incorporation of indigenous wisdom in the art world. #ContemporaryArt #IndigenousCulture #WindsOfChange #PodcastInterview

My special guest is Al Hubbard

Al Hubbard is a contemporary indigenous artist born to a Navajo father and Northern Arapaho mother. Being raised off the reservation in Idaho Falls, Idaho and Las Vegas, Nevada, his parents taught him to be proud of both his native bloodlines. After relocating to the Wind River Reservation at age 17, he developed a deeper appreciation and respect for both tribal cultures.

It is from this early path of movement that Al gained his perspective of the world around him. The method of reflecting his environment after enrolling at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico became a lifelong journey of storytelling through memory, concept, and visual language. His development of painting is based within printmaking techniques, photography, mark-making, and image-transfer. His exploration of textures and color is based in landscape, environmental, and indigenous material culture. The layers of acrylic mediums, colors, and images are carefully applied to the surface and sanded to reveal the historical process.

The unique manipulation of the materials he chooses reflect the historical complexity and multi-levels of living as a Native American in today's world. His efforts to challenge the anthropologic narrative and to transform the pop culture image of Native America through his works remain an ever-evolving path. Al currently resides on the Wind River Reservation in central Wyoming.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Learn about the rich tradition of storytelling in Native American culture and its profound impact on art and identity.

• Explore the profound influence of oral traditions on indigenous knowledge and gain deeper insights into its significance in contemporary art.

• Discover the pivotal role of art in preserving and celebrating indigenous heritage, fostering a greater appreciation for cultural diversity.

• Hear Al’s Native American identity story and discovery through art, gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities and beauty of indigenous experiences.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Sign up for the newsletter by clicking on the link in the description of the podcast.

• Learn more about Wyoming humanities at ThinkWY.org.

• Follow Al Hubbard on Instagram for updates on artwork, events, and exhibitions.

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