DelArt and the Nanticoke Indian Museum present a landmark exhibition centering Indigenous voices, past and present
The Delaware Art Museum (DelArt) is proud to present Living Indigenous, on view from February 28 through August 23, 2026. Developed in partnership with the Nanticoke Indian Museum, this major exhibition brings together intergenerational voices to celebrate the lived experiences and creative contributions of Indigenous artists connected to Delaware and beyond, while honoring enduring cultural narratives rooted in Turtle Island—a term used by many Indigenous peoples to describe North America.
Living Indigenous will be complemented by dynamic programming, including the 5th Annual Powwow of Arts and Culture, gallery talks and tours, expanded school-tour curriculum, and interpretive materials amplifying Indigenous voices.
The exhibition features artwork created by Indigenous artist in a dedicated gallery space, complimented by artwork, ephemera, and objects throughout five additional Museum galleries, integrating contemporary and historical works from DelArt’s permanent collection. Through this multivocal presentation, the exhibition centers Indigenous perspectives and deepens understanding of identity, history, and cultural continuity.
“The artists in the exhibition offer powerful perspectives on identity, history, and the present moment,” said Margaret Winslow, Head Curator and Curator of Contemporary Art at DelArt. “We’re excited to explore these stories with our community and beyond.”
A key feature of Living Indigenous is its focus on intergenerational storytelling, including the work of uncle Leonard Allen Harmon and nephew Leonard D. Harmon. Reflecting on his practice, Leonard D. Harmon shares:
“I draw inspiration from my ancestors to infuse a modern twist into traditional arts… offering fresh perspectives on history.”
The artwork from DelArt’s permanent collection highlights nationally and regionally significant Indigenous artists, including Will Wilson’s Critical Indigenous Photographic Exchange (CIPX), André L. Wright Jr., and rare books illustrated by Angel De Cora (Hinook-Mahiwi-Kalinaka), as well as works by non-Indigenous artists such as John Sloan. These pieces provide important context by reflecting both an appreciation for Indigenous artistic traditions and the ways Indigenous subjects have been historically misrepresented in American art. Together, these works create a dialogue across perspectives—exploring representation, confronting past narratives, and celebrating the resilience and innovation of Indigenous artists.
Building on DelArt’s long-standing collaboration with Indigenous communities—including an annual Powwow, exhibitions, artists’ commissions, and community partnerships—Living Indigenous reflects the Museum’s commitment to integrating diverse voices into its curatorial and interpretive practices.
The Nanticoke Indian Museum Leadership shares:
“The Nanticoke Indian Museum is very pleased to have Nanticoke artists represented in this exhibition. It is an honor to be able to present the artwork of talented tribal members to the public through the Delaware Art Museum.”
Aligned with DelArt’s strategic vision, Living Indigenous positions the Museum as a welcoming and inclusive cultural hub—expanding access to Indigenous art while deepening audience engagement and awareness. Central to this effort is DelArt’s commitment to the DE 250 initiative, ensuring that Delaware’s 250th anniversary is documented through lived experience and creative expression. Through this exhibition, visitors are invited to engage with stories that reflect the diversity of experiences in Delaware and across the United States, connecting past and present through the voices of Indigenous artists.
Media Invitation
Members of the media are invited to attend a special press event:
Date: April 11, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM
Location: Delaware Art Museum
This exclusive event will include:
- Opportunities to meet participating artists and curators
- Engagement with Powwow participants and cultural contributors
- Interview opportunities and behind-the-scenes insights
All requests to attend, email Shannon Woodloe at swoodloe@delart.org.
About the Delaware Art Museum
The Delaware Art Museum is a nationally recognized regional museum that connects people through art and experience. Founded in 1912 to honor illustrator Howard Pyle, the Museum now houses over 13,000 works, including the largest Pre-Raphaelite collection outside the U.K. and a growing contemporary art collection. Its campus features galleries, a 6-acre sculpture garden, labyrinth, and event spaces—creating a dynamic center and vibrant cultural resource, offering exhibitions, classes, and community programs that reflect and engage the diverse Delaware community and beyond. Visit delart.org to for the latest exhibitions, programs, and performances or connect with us via social media.
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Living Indigenous
WHEN: Feb 28, 2026 – Aug 23, 2026
WHERE: Delaware Art Museum, 2301 Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington, DE 19806
COST: Included with Museum admission
INFO: delart.org/living-indigenous/
WHAT: 5th Annual Powwow of Arts and Culture
WHEN: Apr 11, 2026, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
WHERE: Delaware Art Museum, 2301 Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington, DE 19806
COST: Free
INFO: delart.org/5th-annual-powwow-of-arts-and-culture/