#United States #Boston #Native American #Faneuil Hall #Scott Strong Hawk

A Glimpse into Native American Heritage

In the heart of Boston, the Mayor's Office of Arts & Culture along with Faneuil Hall Marketplace has launched a remarkable exhibit called "Ways of My Ancestors - Imagery Lighting the Path to Awareness." This exhibition features a striking series of photographs taken by renowned Hassanamisco Nipmuc artist Scott Strong Hawk Foster. It aims to celebrate Native American Heritage Month and will be open to the public from November 15, 2025, to January 14, 2026.

Celebrating Cultural Heritage

The exhibit's grand opening is set for November 19, 2025, starting at 4:30 PM. Attendees can look forward to an engaging evening that includes light refreshments and a unique walking artist talk led by Scott himself. Attendees will also be treated to performances from various Native American singers and drummers, including Strong Eagle Daly, a talented flautist, as well as poetry readings by Ella Nathanael Alkiewicz, and traditional stomp dances performed by Bruce Curliss. The event will also feature remarks by Jim Peters, the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Commission on Indian Affairs.

The stunning photography will adorn the iconic Quincy Market, creating a welcoming experience for the thousands of visitors who frequent this historic site. These portraits serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing presence and rich culture of Native American peoples throughout history.

A Deeper Connection

Faneuil Hall Marketplace has expressed its pride in hosting this exhibit, noting that it marks a significant step in their new arts initiative. This initiative seeks to connect both residents and visitors with a diverse array of public art that reflects the multifaceted history of Boston. According to officials, this exhibit underscores their ongoing commitment to improving the Faneuil Hall experience for the community while acknowledging the cultural narratives that have shaped the city.

Karin Goodfellow, from the Mayor's Office of Arts & Culture, emphasized the critical importance of authentic representation of Native American cultures, stating, "This exhibit illustrates the pressing need for self-representation after decades of erasure in the art and public narrative of Boston."

The atmosphere of Quincy Market, enriched with these monumental portraits, serves as a resonant backdrop for honoring cultural legacies while guiding conversations about identity and inclusion within Boston's diverse community.

Voices of the Past and Present

Scott Strong Hawk Foster, the visionary behind the collection, is dedicated to authentically presenting his family’s history and that of his community. His work aims to illuminate the unmatched stories and values of Native Americans today, countering the misunderstandings that persist about Indigenous cultures. "Through this portrait series, I aim to educate and foster inclusion whilst narrating the truths of our presence as Indigenous peoples in this area," he commented, emphasizing the deeper meanings behind his artistry.

This exhibit is part of a broader initiative known as Un-monument | Re-monument | De-monument Transforming Boston, which aims to reinterpret the traditional concept of monuments through temporary public art installations. Funded by a generous $3 million grant from the Mellon Foundation, this project represents the largest investment in public art programming in Boston’s history.

A Call to Reflection

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Ways of My Ancestors invites everyone to reflect on the vital roles that Native American and Indigenous peoples have played in shaping the country. Through cultural storytelling and public art, this initiative promotes a deeper engagement with the Indigenous perspectives that are part of Boston's historical fabric.

"Public art and cultural storytelling prompt us to delve deeper into the narratives that define us as a city," stated Mariangely Solis Cervera, the Chief of Equity and Inclusion for the City of Boston. "Native American Heritage Month is an opportunity for everyone to interact with Indigenous voices more meaningfully."

For those interested in more details about the exhibit or the opening reception, further information can be found on the event's website.

Discover More About the Artist

Scott Strong Hawk Foster, whose roots include Hassanamisco Nipmuc, Mohegan, and Cherokee heritage, dedicates his photography to documenting Native American culture and presence in New England. His works chronicle experiences from powwows and Indigenous cultural events, showcasing the resilience and diversity within these communities.

For a broader view of Foster's artistic contributions, visit the current exhibition titled Here We Stay at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston.

The Role of Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Once a gathering place dating back to 1742, Faneuil Hall Marketplace stands today as a vibrant cultural hub, where history, food, and community converge. Its commitment to enhancing the Boston experience remains steadfast, and through events such as Ways of My Ancestors, it continues to play a pivotal role in sharing vital stories that resonate with all generations.

By attending, you contribute to a larger dialogue about representation and the value of understanding our diverse histories.