Irizarry Shows Work At Spokane Gallery

Institute of American Indian Arts’ 2022 valedictorian Tiffanie Irizarry participated in a “Land Acknowledgment” exhibition and show at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Wash., Dec. 5.

Irizarry’s acrylic 20”x30” portrait of Chief Iron White Man was included in the show.

The gallery exhibition was curated by Charlene Teters. Irizarry said the show was mainly focused on regional art from the Pacific Northwest tribal members.

According to Irizarry, Teters wanted a group exhibition of mostly Northwest tribes but invited the pair to participate.

“The show was amazing,” said Irizarry. “It was sleeting that day, but yet a bunch of people still showed up. It was my first time flying. I was terrified, but I wasn’t going to miss this.”

Irizarry and Arnoux, who call the Fort Peck Reservation home, were also invited to participate in a panel discussion/ lecture with Teters at Gonzaga’s Hemmingson Ballroom to speak on the subject of land acknowledgment Nov. 8.

“The lecture was an in depth discussion about the exhibition,” Irizarry said. “I’m a pretty quiet, soft spoken person but when it comes to talking about issues that Indigenous people face, I have no choice but to speak up. I really wanted to make it a point that Native history should be taught in all schools, so people know the history of where they live. So that we may move forward in solidarity and support of tribes in this country.”

For more, check out Irizarry’s Facebook page or visit tiffanieirizarry.com..