(Image source from: Vinylmation World)

At a new art exhibition at Walt Disney World Resort, that debuted on Friday, an American Indian history and culture came to life.

"Creating Tradition: Innovation and Change in American Indian Art" at Epcot shows the work of contemporary Native artists together with artifacts from centuries past, demonstrating how ancestral craftsmanship influences modern generations.

The exhibition opened at the American Heritage Gallery inside The American Adventure pavilion. The 89 pieces on display represent 40 different American Indian tribes from seven geographic regions across the United States, including New Mexico.

"At Epcot, guests are invited to celebrate the limitless possibilities of human imagination and innovation." Epcot Vice President Melissa Valiquette said. "By showcasing artwork from so many diverse American Indian tribes, 'Creating Tradition' is a wonderful way to share a vital part of the United States culture with all those who visit The American Adventure."

"Creating Tradition" also offers three interactive video exhibits where contemporary American Indian artists share perspectives on their work and culture. When visitors wave their hands ahead of a display resembling a campfire, the "flames" transform into a video presentation. Music playing in the gallery, did by Native musicians, supports the objects and regions signified throughout the exhibition.

The new art exhibition is produced in collaboration with the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C., and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Leaders from both cultural institutions were on hand for the gallery opening.

"We are honored to collaborate with Walt Disney Imagineering and the Smithsonian in developing this exhibition," said Della Warrior (Otoe-Missouria), director of the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. "Hopefully, it will foster a greater understanding and appreciation of the various tribes located in almost every state in this nation, and people seeing these artifacts will be inspired and strive to learn more about American Indians."

The dedication ceremony for "Creating Tradition" included a blessing from Seminole Tribe of Florida representative Bobby Henry and a stomp dance performance by Seminole tribe members.

In next five years, the exhibition will feature new-fangled artifacts and refreshed displays, including pieces from more of the 573 American Indian tribes documented by the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs.

By Sowmya Sangam