Woodland Indian Art Show features Ho-Chunk artists
By Marlon WhiteEagle
Three Ho-Chunk artists were featured at the Woodland Indian Art Show and Market that was held on June 30, July 1 and 2 at the Radisson Conference Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Melanie Tallmadge Sainz, Chris Sweet, and Leah Lamere showcased their art in the juried art competition. Over 25 artists participated in the juried art show.
Sainz is the founding director of the Little Eagle Arts Foundation and owner of the Native Presence Art Gallery located in Wisconsin Dells.
She also serves on the board for Arts Wisconsin.
“I’ve participated in juried art markets since 1987. I only enter in juried shows,” Sainz said. “My quill and bead work are a part of the permanent collection at the Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis. My work is also represented in the National Museum of American Indian locations in Washington D.C. and New York City.”
Sweet and Lamere are both Little Eagle Arts Foundation 2017 Fellows. Sweet lives in Milwaukee, while Lamere resides in Ringle, Wisconsin.
Sweet’s art can be seen at the Native Presence Art Gallery in Wisconsin Dells, and soon at the Oshkosh Public Museum.
‘The Voices of Native American Art: Telling Our Story’ will open at the Oshkosh Public Museum on July 23 and runs through October 8 featuring several pieces of Sweet’s art.
“I’d describe my artwork as abstract with a touch of realism, but overall contemporary,” Sweet said. “I want my art to inspire young people to use the God-given creativity they possess.”
Lamere has shown her art at powwows and local art markets.
“I’ve learned beadwork and sewing from my mother,” Lamere said. “I’m excited about the opportunity to participate in my first juried art market. I’d encourage others keep doing art to keep our culture alive.”
Sainz received second place recognition for her art piece. Sweet received an honorable mention for his artwork.
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