Joslyn Art Museum Reopens in Omaha with New Snøhetta Building

The Joslyn Art Museum has recently reopened after a two-year closure, showcasing a new building designed by Snøhetta. This expansion includes a significant integration of Native American art into the museum's American and contemporary galleries, a move aimed at promoting equality and visibility for Indigenous art. Chief Curator Taylor Acosta emphasized the importance of merging Indigenous and non-Indigenous collections, highlighting the innovative Prairie Style of Native American art that emerged from historical displacements. The museum features more Indigenous artwork than ever before, displayed in state-of-the-art cases that enhance visibility and appreciation. A notable piece in the contemporary galleries is Wendy Red Star's The Indian Congress (2021), which reflects on the history of the Trans-Mississippi Exposition and the participation of thirty-five Native American nations in 1898. This collaboration with Red Star underscores the museum's commitment to showcasing the region's history and culture. The new building's design, characterized by swooping shapes and forms, is intended to evoke the Nebraska landscape, contrasting with the previous boxy structures that lacked windows. This architectural choice aims to create a more inviting and engaging environment for visitors. The Joslyn Art Museum's expansion, costing over $100 million, is part of a broader investment in Omaha's cultural and infrastructural development, which includes a new science center and ongoing airport renovations. Overall, the museum's reopening represents a significant cultural milestone for Omaha, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and the celebration of diverse artistic traditions. The integration of Native American art into the museum's narrative is a step towards fostering greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures in the region and beyond.