Winston Publishing

portfolio portfolio • 57 FIRST PEOPLES BUFFALO JUMP STATE PARK ART EXHIBIT & SALE By Susie Wall Echoes of Artistry and Ancestry A Cultural Tapestry at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park Aficionados of history and art are invited to an unparalleled cultural rendezvous at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park, located 3.5 miles north of Ulm and 20 minutes west of Great Falls, on Saturday, March 16th. e day begins with an enlightening ranger-led exploration, offering aendees an intimate glimpse into the ancient artistry of Native peoples. is journey through time showcases the petroglyphs and pictographs etched and painted at the base of the iconic sandstone cliff, a testament to the rich heritage that christens the park. e narrative continues post-hike as the visitor center transforms into a gallery hosting an exhibition of contemporary Native American artistry by the renowned Kuka Family. is showcase bridges the historical and the modern and celebrates the enduring spirit and creativity of Native American cultures. For those drawn to the confluence of nature, history, and art, this First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park event offers an evocative journey through the storied landscapes and the vibrant art traditions that continue to thrive within the Native American community. Kingsley "King" Kuka, a luminary from the Blackfeet Nation, le an indelible mark across a spectrum of artistic disciplines, spanning painting, lithography, poetry, sculpture, jewelry, printing, and poery. His multifaceted talent redefined the boundaries of Native American art, embracing a philosophy that transcended specialization. "He would tell us that you had to be gied in all mediums and not just an expert in one," recalls his daughter, Khi Soldano, capturing the essence of Kuka's expansive approach to creativity. is ethos showcases his remarkable versatility and sets a precedent for future generations, illustrating the depth and breadth of artistic exploration. Kuka's artistic prowess captivated his offspring and ignited the creative spirits of countless American Indian artists across generations. His canvas was a vivid tapestry of themes, ranging from the natural grace of wildlife and florals to the enchanting and authentic portrayals of Native American life, blending the mystical with the real. It was during his time at a boarding school in New Mexico in the late 1950s that Kuka first made his mark in the art world. "He didn't have a lot of money, so he would sell his art to the teachers," Khi recounts. is early venture into art sales laid the groundwork for his future, eventually leading him to become one of the inaugural students at the esteemed Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, a milestone that would set the stage for his illustrious career. Khi, a progeny of King and Mariea Kuka, is one of eight siblings and one of five who have embraced their father's artistic legacy, continuing the lineage of creativity that King Kuka so vividly embodied. is familial bond through art is not just a testament to their father's influence but also a celebration of their collective talents, which will be showcased during the exhibition. Following in her father's versatile footsteps, Khi cultivated her own diverse skill set in the art world. "I make jewelry, paint with acrylics, and draw with Prismacolor. I also paint on buffalo skulls. People are really interested in those," she articulates, highlighting her multifaceted approach to art that mirrors her father's. e Kuka family 's longstanding participation in Western Art Week takes on a deeper, more personal resonance this year, with Khi expressing a particular fondness for the venue of their current show. "We really love being at the Buffalo Jump. We can all be in one location, and it's so symbolic to have our show there. It just feels right," she says. In his dual role as both park manager and art show coordinator at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park, Clark Carlson-ompson is at the forefront of this cultural endeavor. He sees the park's latest art exhibition as a conduit for deeper understanding and connection. "Our park is all about bridging cultures between the northern plains buffalo cultures and the folks living in and passing through the area today," explains Carlson-ompson. "In coming to the park to experience works of art by native artists, people really have the chance to connect with the park's history and cultures more than they may have elsewhere. It's a unique opportunity," Amidst the backdrop of natural beauty and historical resonance, members of the Kuka family will be present to chat with visitors and share insight into their artistic legacy. Visitors will also receive a raffle ticket upon entry, offering the chance to win a framed original by Kingsley Kuka. e event includes refreshments, access to the visitor center's exhibits, a gi shop, and the opportunity to explore the park's trails. FIRST PEOPLES BUFFALO JUMP STATE PARK ART EXHIBIT AND SALE Saturday, March 16 (One day only) 10 am to noon: Strenuous Off-trail hike, $4 per person, Reservations are Required, Call Andy Keller (406) 866-2217 or email: Andy.Keller@mt.gov Show Opens | Noon - 3:30 pm Park Visitor Center • Free admission First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park Visitor Center • 342 Ulm - Vaughn Road "King" Kuka was a local Blackfeet artist and poet known for his paintings and lithographs,Which he called "Kuka-graphs. The art show will feature original works by "King" Kuka and the Kuka Family.

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