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Exhibit Dates: June 5, 2021 through June 5, 2022
This exhibit opens on what would have been Blackbear Bosin's 100th birthday.
Blackbear Bosin, an internationally recognized Kiowa-Comanche artist and the creator of the iconic Keeper of the Plains, was one of the founders of MAAIM. The museum is home to the largest public collection of his artwork. In 2019, the Indian Museum introduced the Bosin Society, a group dedicated to conserving and preserving the art and legacy of Blackbear Bosin for future generations.
"Bring the Bosins Home" will give visitors a better understanding of Blackbear Bosin's artwork and the way he sought to share his culture with Wichita and the world.
This yearlong remembrance of one of our founders will include free and fee based programs throughout 2021 and will end with a celebration of his 101st birthday.
Exhibit Dates: permanent exhibit
The exhibit gives an in-depth look into the personal and professional life of Bosin, one of the founders of the Indian Center and the man behind Wichita's iconic Keeper of the Plains sculpture. Tsate Kongia was Bosin's Kiowa name. It means "Blackbear" and belonged to his great-grandfather, a Kiowa chief. The exhibit includes paintings, photographs, vintage film footage, live audio tapes made by Bosin and interviews with people who were close to him.
Bosin was an internationally recognized Kiowa-Comanche sculptor and acrylic/watercolor painter from Oklahoma who adopted Wichita as his home in 1940. Primarily a self-taught artist, Bosin helped enhance a better understanding of his culture by presenting scenes and tales of his beloved Indian heritage beautifully to the world. National Geographic gave Bosin his first national recognition in March 1955 with the publication of his painting "Prairie Fire."
From the Vault
Join us for an exhibit of old and new curated works from the Mid-America All-Indian Center Museum’s unique collection.
Ivory Miniatures
Join us for a closer look at our extraordinary collection of intricately carved ivory miniatures. These stunning works of art were gifts made for Mildred Manty, a Ketchikan Public Health nurse by the Alaska Natives she served.
What We Collect
The human desire to collect objects is long recognized in historical and cultural studies. What makes us collect things and why? This exhibit highlights different objects donated to the museum by collectors, families, and individuals.
Woody Crumbo: Potawatomi Printmaker
Take a deep dive into the life and work of the multitalented artist, Woody Crumbo and the Mid-America All-Indian Museum’s extensive collection of prints by the artist. Find out more about his ties to Wichita and why he painted most of his animals blue!
