In many ways, America is a nation built upon the intersecting and never-ending journeys of its people.
In its annual Four Corners Commission exhibit, Durango Arts Center will explore the stories and nature of migration through art. In conjunction with a traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution at the Animas Museum, “Journey Stories” will feature artwork by more than 40 local and regional artists.
“It is about our personal histories, each and everyone of us,” DAC exhibits director Mary Puller said. “What was it that brought our ancestors to this country? From where did they come, and why did they decide to set down roots here?”
“Journey Stories” is part of the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street national tour. The exhibit looks at the personal histories of all Americans – from Native Americans to new immigrants. The exhibit will open Jan. 17 at Animas Museum and run through March 18. The juried art show at DAC will open today.
“These histories sometimes have involved forcible movement or relocation,” Puller said. “Some wished to homestead. ... Many were looking for work or to create employment ... all reaching out to start their lives anew for a myriad number of reasons. (It is) the human drive for freedom, I believe.”
Jina Brenneman, curator of exhibitions and collections at the Harwood Museum of Art in Taos, N.M., juried the exhibit. She whittled 101 artwork submissions down to 62 for the show.
Tonight’s opening reception will feature performances by Sara Ransom and Women of the San Juans.
“(Ransom) is both a storyteller and songwriter who has incorporated the personal stories of several early individuals in this region into songs,” Puller said.
Women of the San Juans will tell stories of early women settlers in the region.
margaretyh@gmail.com. Margaret Hedderman is a freelance writer based in Durango.
If you go
The Four Corners Commission: “Journey Stories,” Jina Brenneman, juror, will be on display through Feb. 1 in the Barbara Conrad Gallery at Durango Arts Center, 802 East Second Ave.
Also opening today, “Improvisation: Restraint,” stitched drawings by Susan Moss, through February in the upstairs Art Library.
Opening receptions for both exhibits will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. today. For more information, call 259-2606 or visit www.durangoarts.org.
