Dynamics of Russian Colonialism in Alaska: Marlena Myles – Minneapolis, MN

Feb 21, 2021 | art/design

Marlena Myles
Sea Otter Animal Spirit, 2021
Vector illustration print on metal, 24″ x 24″
Courtesy of the artist

January 23 – March 14, 2021

Dynamics of Russian Colonialism in Alaska,the first solo exhibition of work by Marlena Myles, focuses on the intersection of immigrant and Native peoples in North America. These digitally created works bring to light the commonly unknown history of interactions between Russian explorers, settlers, traders, clergy, and Alaska Natives before the Alaskan territory was sold to the United States in 1867. These are important reflections, much needed in the contemporary United States and Minnesota, that acknowledge indigenous histories.

Marlena Myles is a Native American (Dakota, Mohegan, Muscogee) artist, instructor, and children’s book illustrator located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Myles uses art to celebrate the languages and culture of her people. This exhibition is a “…chance for the large public to see how innovative Native art can be through the use of modern technology….” (Marlena Myles).

The Museum of Russian Art, in partnership with Marlena Myles, is a fiscal year 2020 recipient of a Cultural Community Partnership grant from the MInnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.