Brian Jungen: Strange Comfort
http://www.nmai.si.edu/exhibitions/jungen
This major survey of Brian Jungen (Dunne-za First Nations/Swiss-Canadian) transforms the familiar and banal into exquisite objects that reference themes of globalization, pop culture, museums, and the commodification of Indian imagery. Jungen first came to prominence with Prototype for New Understanding (1998–2005), for which he fashioned Nike footwear into masks that suggested Northwest Coast Native iconography. Later works have included a pod of whales made from plastic chairs, totem poles made from golf bags, and a massive basketball court made from 224 sewing tables. Strange Comfort features Jungen's iconic works, as well as major pieces never before seen in the United States. It also marks the first time Jungen’s work has been staged in a Native museum.