2 shows of Native American art open at BMA Oct. 9

The Birmingham Museum of Art will present two separate exhibitions of Native American art from ancient and contemporary times beginning Saturday, Oct. 9.

“Lost Realms of the Moundbuilders: Ancient Native Americans of the South and Midwest” explores the fascinating archaeology and history of the Mississippian Moundbuilders, their religious and ceremonial activities, farming and hunting practices, trade networks, and their highly-developed social, political and religious centers. 

“Lost Realms” features 175 artifacts from four different sites, including Moundville in Alabama.

“Voices So True: New Native American Art from the Clyde Oyster Bequest” features the work of seven contemporary Native American artists, whose vision gives voice to Native American perspectives, past and present.

The works in the exhibition range from photographs and prints to paintings and basketry.

The artists — Kay Walking Stick, Wendy Red Star, Norman Akers, Eugene Tapahe, Zoe Marieh Urness, Shan Goshorn, and Larry McNeil —are affiliated with many different tribal nations, including Eastern Band Cherokee, Navajo, Osage, Crow, Tlingit and Mohawk.

For more information, call 205-254-2565 or go to artsbma.org.