Current

This focus exhibition explores how basketry in the Grasslands region of Cameroon intersects with wider visual culture. It considers this topic through two main directions: one, the connections between the form of baskets and that of artworks made with other materials, and second, the widespread use of basketry in a variety of settings and cultural practices. Interwoven presents a selection of twentieth-century objects used in ceremonial and domestic settings, including dance rattles, baskets for honey, woven bags, palm wine pitchers, and storage baskets.

This focus exhibition explores the concept of interlacing through a display of nineteenth and twentieth-century textiles from West and Central Africa. It discusses interlacing through African woven and dyed textiles worn as clothing, as well as the use of textiles in hats, masks, and currency. This exhibition was developed in collaboration with contemporary fiber artist Beatrice Atencah, who is an MFA candidate in the IU School of Art, Architecture, and Design.

This focus exhibition examines the intersection of public-facing art and political propaganda during the reign of Roman Emperor Septimus Severus (193–211 CE). Severus, the Libyan-born founder of the Severan dynasty, and his Syrian-born wife, Julia Domna, used their portraits to center themselves as the rightful rulers of an increasingly complex and multicultural society.