Contemporary and historic images were projected onto the building exterior during Fotoweek DC’s NightGallery along the National Mall, focused on transitions in Native life.


Image of the last hereditary chief of the Southern Utes, Buckskin Charlie, is cast upon the museum’s exterior.


The Museum building’s southwest corner illuminated at night.


A


s the Museum enters its 10th year of operation, its architec- tural design has not only stood the test of time, but has grown in appreciation and stature.


The Museum’s warm Kasota limestone rises from the land like an organic form, born of geology and carved by the elements. It of- fers a striking contrast to the cluster of stark white buildings that constitute and dominate the Washington, D.C., architectural aesthetic. Evocative of Native building traditions the Museum’s front doors face east to greet the morning sun while offering a stunning view of the U.S. Capitol. These and other attri- butes have made the Museum a must-see for architectural aficionados worldwide. Visitors comment that it’s almost impos-


sible to take a bad photograph of the building. Staff members express delight in working in an organic structure with very few straight and confining walls. Over the years thousands upon thousands of beautiful images have been taken of the building. In addition, artists have added their own expressions to the building — thereby making art of art. This photo es- say is a celebration of the architecture of the National Museum of the American Indian as a masterwork of Native expression and as a destination of soaring inspiration. X


58 AMERICAN INDIAN SUMMER/FALL 2014


PHOTO BY R.A. WHITESIDE, NMAI


PHOTO BY PAUL FETTERS, 2008


PHOTO BY PAUL FETTERS, 2008


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