The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center opened its 45th annual Native American Student Art Show (NASAS) on November 22, showcasing the creativity of Native American students in New Mexico. A tradition celebrated since the early days of IPCC, this year’s art show focuses on Native American architectural designs for the future. Students from kindergarten through 12th grade submitted artworks based on this year’s exhibition topic, “Planning Our Future Homes.” This theme was inspired by the current exhibits in IPCC’s rotating galleries focusing on both past and present Native American architecture.
NASAS is organized by grades K-5 and 6-12, with the categories of Drawing and Painting, Design and Collage, and Sculpture and Ceramic. Awards are given for each grade division within the categories. Visitors to the museum can also vote for the People’s Choice Award, which will be announced near the close of the exhibition.
After the art show’s initial opening, a reception was held on November 23. This was an opportunity for students and their families and teachers to celebrate their work. The reception was also open to museum visitors interested in seeing local students’ creations. The events of the day included an awards ceremony, along with a special pottery demonstration by Wilma Tosa (Pueblo of Jemez). This demonstration by a skilled Pueblo potter at an exhibition by young artists was an example of the connection between different generations that allows traditional Native American art to be taught and passed down, keeping these traditions alive.
The art of the Native American Student Art Show is currently on exhibit in IPCC’s Artists Circle Gallery at the south entrance of the Cultural Center. It will be on view through February 1, 2026. IPCC guests are all invited to visit the exhibit and explore the work of the next generation of New Mexico’s Native artists.