November marks Native American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art (150 Central Avenue) is bringing that celebration to St. Pete on Sunday, November 8, with a full day of live artist demonstrations and performances.
To make it even better, admission to the museum’s galleries will be completely free for all guests during the celebration. The experience is part of this month’s Art Everywhere programming, made possible through a Creative Pinellas grant funded by Visit St. Pete Clearwater. Read on for more details, and find additional information here.
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A day of Indigenous arts & culture
The museum has collaborated with Native artists to bring programming that honors Indigenous creativity. The demonstrations cover a multitude of mediums, with art and experiences that will impress visitors of all ages. From traditional crafts to dynamic live performances, there’s plenty to explore throughout the day:
Basket weaving: Artists Jessica Osceola (Seminole) and Kimberly Stevenot (Sierra Miwok) will both be sharing their basket weaving techniques and traditions in the galleries. Visitors can learn more about the craft and the skill involved in creating these intricate woven pieces.
Hopi katsina carving: Renowned carvers Cory Ahownewa and Makwesaw Chimerica will be stationed on the second floor, offering live carving demonstrations and interacting with guests, from 10AM-5PM. It’s an opportunity to see the artistry and techniques behind these distinctive carvings up close.
Live performances: World champion hoop dancer and musician Tony Duncan will take the stage along with award-winning hoop dancer Lowery Begay for two dynamic performances at 11AM and 2PM. Both performances are sold out, but limited walk-ups will be available on the day of the event.
Beyond the event, a special addition to the galleries
The celebration also coincides with a special opportunity to experience Like Rain, a masterful painting by contemporary Indigenous artist James Lavadour (Walawalałáma).
Considered one of the Northwest’s most significant contemporary artists, Lavadour brings a distinctive perspective to the museum’s collection. The work is on loan from Art Bridges and will remain on view at The James Museum through August 2027, giving visitors plenty of time to experience it beyond the November celebration.
More Community Days coming up
This November 8 celebration is part of The James Museum’s broader fall Community Days lineup, a series of events designed to make the museum’s galleries and programming more accessible to the Tampa Bay community.
This series will wrap up with Yuletide on the Range on Tuesday, December 8. From 5-8PM, you can pull up to enjoy the holiday season with a unique Western twist. Have ever seen a Cowboy Santa? You will here. A classic Chrismas Tree gets swapped out with a 12-foot tall illuminated Yule Cactus, making for a perfect photo op. Admission to the first floor is free, while regular museum admission is required to explore the galleries.
“We believe that art has the power to connect and inspire,” said Victoria Doyle, Chief Engagement & Advancement Officer at The James Museum, “and we welcome our entire community to share in these experiences this fall. Whether you are discovering the incredible details of a Hopi Katsina carving, exploring the galleries for the first time on Free Museum Day or taking a family photo with Cowboy Santa, there is a place for you here at The James.”
