CASPER, Wyo. — On Saturday evening, the Nicolaysen Art Museum in downtown Casper unveiled its newest art exhibit and officially welcomed the museum’s new executive director, Alison Maluchnik.
“Grounded” is an exhibit featuring artwork by 15 Indigenous American contemporary artists from various tribes across North America, and the artwork is in a variety of wide-ranging styles. Included in the collection are Ben Pease, Carlin Bear Don’t Walk, Henry Payer, Jackie Larson Bread, Jim Yellowhawk, John Pepion, Robert Martinez, Wade Patton, Brent Learned, Donald F. Montileaux, Hillary Kempenich, Jackie Sevier, Joanne Brings Thunder, Louis Still Smoking and Talissa Abeyta.
A drum circle and cedar smoke cleansing accompanied the unveiling of the artwork.
“It was very much a complete cultural experience tonight,” Maluchnik said. “It was eye-opening and extremely enjoyable. I think everyone should come see this exhibit.”
The night also served as a welcome to Maluchnik, who officially began working as the museum’s executive director this week.
“I came back to Casper, my hometown, in 2017 because of the eclipse,” she said. “I was blown away by what Casper had accomplished and decided to move back based off that experience. I was just so impressed by the way the community came together and all of the art, all of the events.”
“I believe Casper’s art community is having a renaissance, and I want to help propel it,” she added. “That’s my plan and my hope as executive director.”
