I believe sculpture is the art that people respond to most naturally-they
can take hold of it, they can enjoy it with the sense of touch as well
as the sense of sight, and they can enjoy it from all sides.
-Allan Houser
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Established on the Museum grounds
and dedicated in 1993, the Allan Houser Art Park pays tribute to the
internationally renown sculptor, Allan Houser (Chiricahua Apache, 1914
– 1994). This outdoor sculpture park was created so that Native
American sculptors would have a first-class exhibition space for large-scale
sculptures. The warmly colored adobe walls that encloses the more than
600 square feet of the Museum’s Art Park provides a rich contrast
for the sculpture exhibitions.
Allan Houser’s contributions to the art world went well beyond
his personal achievements. Allan Houser distinguished himself as a premier
Modernist sculptor and has often been cited as the patriarch of contemporary
Native American sculpture. Houser devoted his life to his community
and to education. He influenced countless students during his tenure
as IAIA sculpture instructor (1962 – 1975). Many accomplished
Native American sculptors, including Bill Prokopiof (Aleut) and Doug
Hyde (Nez Perce), were his students and were influenced by Houser’s
generous spirit. Allan Houser was a model instructor, mentor and friend
to many young artists. Given Houser’s prodigious contribution
to the IAIA, it is particularly fitting that the Institute continues
to honor and recognize his artistic legacy through on-going sculpture
exhibitions in the Art Park.
In addition to functioning as an outdoor sculpture area, the Allan Houser
Art Park has become an important community space for public programs
and events. The Art Park is also available for private receptions and
dinners. For rental information click here.
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