23 Jun Artist John Isaiah Pepion at Old Main Gallery & Framing

OLD MAIN GALLERY & FRAMING is pleased to feature the work of Native American artist John Isaiah Pepion during the month of July. An Opening Reception will take place on Friday, July 6th, 6-8 PM. This event is open to the public. An Honor Song will be performed by the Bear Canyon Singers.

KNOWN FOR HIS USE of antique ledger paper as a canvas for his art, Pepion creates bold and colorful scenes depicting dancers, animals, and warriors. His unique style blends his own heritage with influences of surrealism and pop art; pushing the boundaries of the traditional art form known as Plains Indian Graphic Art.

HISTORY OF PLAINS INDIAN GRAPHIC ART

Plains Indian Graphic Art, also known as Ledger Art, is a Native American art medium developed by the Plains Indians during the 1860s. A time when they faced increased tension with the United States over broken treaties and the mass extermination of the plains bison population. This was an austere time for native peoples, as resources dwindled artists began rendering drawings of warriors, courtship and ceremonies on used ledger paper.

JOHN ISAIAH PEPION is an artist who hails from the Blackfeet Nation in northern Montana. The art journey has been ceremonial for John as his understanding of his past, family, and culture grows with his work. He descends from Mountain Chief, a Blackfeet leader who preserved history through numerous winter counts. Through art, John finds personal healing and cultural preservation. He speaks with troubled youth in public schools to promote the benefits of art as therapy. John holds formal degrees in Art Marketing and Museum Studies from United Tribes Technical College and the Institute of American Indian Arts, respectively. However, his education continues with every piece he creates and with every story he shares. John incorporates traditional design elements into colorful contemporary illustrations, leaving his work highly recognizable. Most importantly, John’s art deepens his connections to self and place, providing him with a sense of strength.