Niimiwin: Bijiinag igo ingii-azhegiiwe gaa-niimi’iding

Niimiwin is a dynamic multimedia exhibition which explores the profound relationship between movement and identity within contemporary Indigenous art. Inspired by the vibrant traditions of dance and powwow, this showcase features a diverse array of Minnesota-based Indigenous artists whose work delves into the theme of kinetic movement—both in its physical form and its metaphorical resonance. Niimiwin, which translates to “Everyone Dance” in Anishinaabemowin, is an exploration of how movement manifests within our bodies, our connection to the land, and our relationships within the community. The Anishinaabemowin phrase, Bijiinag igo ingii-azhegiiwe gaa-niimi’iding (I recently returned home from a powwow), evokes the feeling of community and connection shared from participating in the vibrancy and celebration of a powwow. This exhibition invites you to experience the dynamic interplay of material, process, and result as artists from various disciplines—ranging from ceramics and photography to powwow singing and beyond—embody the essence of kinetic energy in their creations.

Through their unique approaches and perspectives, the featured artists weave together narratives that highlight the fluidity and vibrancy of movement. Whether through the movement within their process, the visual impact of imagery, or the rhythmic patterns of sound, each piece in Niimiwin captures the vitality of movement as it intersects with cultural identity and relationships.

“As you engage with this exhibition, we encourage you to reflect on how movement shapes and defines your own connections to land, body, and community. Niimiwin is an invitation to witness and contemplate the continuous dance of life and art, celebrating the beauty of Indigenous expression. We are honored to share this journey with you and look forward to the conversations and insights that will emerge from this exploration of kinetic movement.” - Josie Hoffman, exhibition guest curator. 

ABOUT THE CURATOR:
Josie Hoffman (Grand Portage Ojibwe) is a multimedia, interdisciplinary artist whose work is deeply rooted in movement and expression. As a visual artist, powwow dancer, and aerialist, her practice explores themes of environment, body politics, mental health, community, family, and cultural history. With a commitment to amplifying diverse voices and narratives, Josie is poised to create impactful exhibitions that reflect the richness of cultural histories and contemporary dialogues. Learn more at https://www.josephinelynne.com/about. 

ABOUT THE ARTISTS:
Adrienne M. Benjamin, or Amikogaabawiikwe, (She/Her/Hers) is an Anishinaabe multi-faceted artist, equity advocate, and cultural educator. She utilizes the lessons of her life mentors and community elders to create meaningful, current, socially relevant, and culturally significant work that intersects with her Anishinaabe values, history, and life ways. Learn more at https://www.yoadrienneb.net/.

Courtney Cochran is an Anishinaabe multidisciplinary artist, filmmaker, and community organizer based in Minneapolis.

Her work addresses social justice movements, connection to community and to culture, self-exploration, healing, and joy. Learn more at https://www.instagram.com/skoden_studio/?hl=en. 

Chanelle Gallagher is enrolled in the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe and is Bullhead Clan. She is a Minneapolis based ceramic artist who creates contemporary functional pottery inspired by water, our mother earth, and the beauty of her ancestors. Learn more at https://www.instagram.com/waabigan_clay/.

Tasunka Opi (Wounded Horse), aka Michael Kurtz, is a Lakota Wildlife Photographer. Michael is an enrolled member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of Lower Brule, South Dakota. His photography shows his love for wildlife and tracking animals. Learn more at https://www.lakotaphotography.org/.

Courtney M. Leonard (Shinnecock) is an artist and filmmaker, who has contributed to the Offshore Art movement. Leonard’s practice investigates narratives of cultural viability as a reflection of environmental record. Learn more at https://courtneymleonard.com/home.html.

The Stonebridge Singers Drum is a drum group of singers from the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. The group includes a revolving roster of singers including: John Vogel, Trevor Deschampe, Marcus Logan, Brent Sorenson and Dylan Deschampe and others. 

Gallery Hours:
Tuesday-Friday: 10 am-5 pm
Saturday: 12pm - 3 pm
Sunday-Monday: Closed

Market:
Join us Friday, December 20th, for an art market celebrating art, movement, and the artists of “Niimiwin: Bijiinag igo ingii-azhegiiwe gaa-niimi’iding,” presented by @jozii_waabizii and All My Relations Arts, hosted by @mpls.americanindiancenter

Friday, December 20th
At the Minneapolis American Indian Center
3-7pm Market
3-6pm DJs
6pm Drum and Dance performers

Featuring vendors:
| Edible Arts @edibleartsmn |
| Mashkiki Studios @mashkiki_studios |
| Creative Native Beading @creativenativebeading |
| Skoden Studio @skoden_studio |
| Makwa Studio @makwa_studio |
| Any Which Way Art @anywhichwayart |
| Can I Have Some @canihavesomemn |
| Caitlin Newago @bizaanideewin |
| Michael Kurtz @skecathanka |
| Nipinet Landsem @nipinet |

With performances by:
| Caley Coyne |
| Zach Red Bear |
| Lumhe Sampson @senecathrilla |
| Holly Henning @miskitoos |
| Bear Runner |
| Watéčha Records @watecha.records |
| BleakRoses @bleak_roses |

For questions on the accessibility of the exhibition and the venue, please contact arts@nacdi.org.

Image credit: Jingle Dressmaker: Amikogaabawiikwe (Adrienne Benjamin). For additional image info visit our website.