MISSOULA, MT.- The Missoula Art Museum invites the community to celebrate the opening of "Through a Cheyenne Woman's Eyes," a powerful solo exhibition featuring nationally recognized artist Alaina Buffalo Spirit, during First Friday on August 1, 2025.

Buffalo Spirit, a senior member of the So'taa'ee band of the Northern Cheyenne Nation, presents contemporary ledger drawings and mixed media paintings that illuminate the cultural heritage and historical perspectives of Cheyenne women. The exhibition offers an intimate glimpse into stories passed down through generations.

"Ledger art began as an outlet for Cheyenne and Kiowa warriors who were jailed in the barracks of Ft. Marion, Florida, in the mid-1800s," Buffalo Spirit explains. "I found out that there were also a handful of women ledger artists. I questioned, 'What were the women doing during this time?' Thus, I began drawing and painting images of women in order to honor the ones who made a huge impact on my life—my mother, grandmother, and a favorite auntie."

As a self-taught artist, Buffalo Spirit creates pieces on antique account sheets and maps using mixed media including acrylic, ink, color pencils, and gold leaf. The exhibition reflects the profound respect for women within Northern Cheyenne culture. "The Northern Cheyenne value women as 'sacred,'" Buffalo Spirit shares. "Not only are we givers of life, we are the backbone of our families."

First Friday Opening Reception - Friday, August 1, 2025 The evening celebration will feature live music by Dawn Patrol, a no-host bar, and an artist talk where Buffalo Spirit will share insights into her creative process.

Adult Workshop: Creating Ledger Art - Saturday, August 2, 2025 Join Buffalo Spirit for an afternoon workshop where participants will view the exhibition, learn about ledger art history, and create their own pieces using authentic ledger paper. All materials included. Free to the public. Limited to 10 participants; registration required.