“On Native Land” Exhibit Showcases Indigenous Artists at the City Hall Link Gallery

“On Native Land” opened at the City Hall Link Gallery Exhibit in celebration of Native American Heritage Month and will be on display through Friday, Dec. 13.

Curated by Angelina Hilton and her organization, Native Made, the exhibit is an immersive showcase of Indigenous art reflecting the theme, “What does this land mean to you as an Indigenous person of Turtle Island?” Featuring the work of Native American artists from across Turtle Island (North America)—the exhibit shares the artists’ profound connections to the land, resilience, creativity, and cultural pride.

“Curating On Native Land has been more than an honor; it has been medicine,” said Hilton. “I feel and see the healing that unfolds here among strangers, relatives, and friends as we engage in a collective experience that goes beyond art.”

The exhibit invites visitors on a journey across Turtle Island, immersing them in Indigenous perspectives on culture, territory, and identity.

“It is both a celebration of Indigenous heritage and a call to honor our shared responsibility to Mother Earth, inspired by the legacy and enduring spirit of those who protect and nurture her,” said Hilton. “This is more than an art exhibit; it is an opportunity to learn, reflect, and engage with the beauty, strength, and cultural significance woven into each work of art.”

Highlighting the Six Nations of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy—including the Seneca, Tuscarora, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, and Mohawk—as well as the Piscataway Nation, Cherokee Nation, Sac & Fox Nation, and Navajo Nation, “On Native Land” brings to life the stories, traditions, and strength of Indigenous peoples coast to coast. It celebrates the enduring relationship between Indigenous communities and the land, while raising awareness of contemporary issues impacting Native communities today.

Mayor Evans led an opening reception where attendees had the unique opportunity to hear from featured artists and connect with local organizations, including the Indigenous Peoples Day Committee of Rochester NY, the Indigenous Health Coalition, Our Voices Project, and the Rochester Museum and Science Center. The evening also featured hooping dancing performances by Starberrie and remarks from distinguished guests.

Celebrations will continue at the Native Made Market taking place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 30, at 60 Brown’s Race. This vibrant market will feature many of the artists showcased in the exhibit, alongside other Indigenous creatives, educators, and organizations.

The City of Rochester values the visual arts as an educational and aesthetic experience. More importantly, the City sees local art as part of the culture of this region. With this in mind, the Link Gallery, established 1981, promotes the art and art culture of the area. The Gallery, located at 30 Church Street on the first floor of City Hall in the corridor connecting Building A to Building B, is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Link Gallery is free, handicapped accessible, and open to the public.

For more information, visit www.cityofrochester.gov/linkgallery.