Spirit of Our Ancestors: Historic Ledger Drawings of the Southern Plains Indians – Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Kiowa

This powerful collection features works by acclaimed Cheyenne and Arapaho artists George Curtis Levi, Brent Learned, and Beau Tsatoke. The exhibit dives into the rich history of the Southern Plains, emphasizing the impact of the Red River War and the lasting presence of Indigenous culture in the Texas Panhandle.

For over 13,000 years, Indigenous peoples have called the Texas Panhandle home. The exhibit brings to life the history of the Southern Cheyenne, Southern Arapaho, Kiowa, Comanche, and Plains Apache, with a special focus on the Red River War of 1874-75, a pivotal moment that shaped the fate of these tribes. Through the historic ledger drawings, visitors will explore the resilience of the Southern Plains tribes as they faced the near extinction of the bison and fought to preserve their way of life.

Ledger art, originally drawn on the lined pages of account books, captures personal stories of warriors—depicting battles, hunting, and other facets of tribal life. This exhibition honors this tradition while showcasing how contemporary Native artists continue to breathe new life into this art form. Their work serves as a powerful symbol of cultural survival and resilience, inspiring current and future generations.