Whitefish artist with Indigenous roots featured in solo exhibit at the Glacier Art Museum

Glacier Art Museum presents a new solo art exhibition, Where Currents Carry the Soul: Recent Work by True Archdale, with a preview reception from 5 to 7 p.m. June 18. 

Archdale, or Wihinapa wia (Rising Sun Woman), is a multimedia artist who was born and raised in Wolf Point and is an enrolled member of the Assiniboine tribe. Archdale recently returned to Montana after three decades living in the Los Angeles area. 

Her current work blends symbolic forms and design elements from her Indigenous culture with contemporary, abstract techniques and repurposed materials. Over 25 new works will be on view at the museum. The works range from large-scale acrylic paintings to mixed media wall sculptures incorporating culturally significant materials. Each work contains personal narrative, symbolism, and inspiration from her heritage and the natural world. 

Archdale is also a filmmaker. Her film, “Wolf Point: Red Road Stories,” will also be on view at the museum and explores themes of heritage, community and cultural values. 

“Much of my inspiration comes from time spent exploring the wilderness — where land becomes a teacher, guiding the spirit of my work,” Archdale said. 

Archdale's creative path began with both music and art, earning a dual degree at the University of Northern Colorado. As a classically trained baritone saxophonist, she approaches both sound and visual art as forms of rhythm and balance. Her work is in collections across the country and she is a participating artist in Sovereign Santa Fe, an annual contemporary Indigenous art exhibition happening at the historic La Fonda hotel during the renowned Santa Fe Indian Market. 

Admission to the preview reception is $10 and free for members. Visitors will be able to meet the artist. Live music will be provided by cellist Lee Zimmerman. 

A gallery talk and walk-through with the artist will also be held at the museum, 302 Second Ave. E., Kalispell, from 6 to 7:30 Aug. 20. Admission is free. 

The exhibit will be on display through Sept. 26. 

    Shared Ground by True Archdale, acrylic and oil stick on canvas. (Images courtesy of True Archdale)