The Block Museum of Art at Northwestern University is set to host a significant exhibition titled “it takes a long time to stay here: Paintings by Jordan Ann Craig.” This marks the first major solo showcase in the Midwest for Northern Cheyenne artist Jordan Ann Craig. The exhibition, opening on January 25 and running through April 13, will feature seven large-scale abstract paintings.
Craig's work merges bold uses of color, line, and form with Northern Cheyenne aesthetic traditions. Her art draws inspiration from Indigenous forms such as beadwork, pottery, and textiles. "Jordan Ann Craig’s paintings invite slow, contemplative engagement through their intricate combinations of color, geometry and form," stated Kathleen Bickford Berzock, associate director of curatorial affairs at The Block Museum. She emphasized the reflective nature of Craig's work and its connection to Indigenous histories.
The title of the exhibition is inspired by Northern Cheyenne poet m.s. RedCherries’ poem “spinning air,” highlighting themes like reflection and interconnectedness. Craig’s pieces are known for their intricate patterns and enigmatic titles that encourage immersive viewing.
Craig describes her artistic journey as deeply influenced by her family’s creative environment during her childhood. "My parents gave us art supplies instead of toys," she said. This upbringing has shaped her current approach to painting.
A keynote event on February 26 will feature a conversation between Jordan Ann Craig and m.s. RedCherries about identity and creative expression within Northern Cheyenne culture. Moderated by Jordan Poorman Cocker from Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, this event is free to attend but requires an RSVP.
In conjunction with the exhibition, The Block Museum has acquired one of Craig’s works titled “Sharp Tongue: Used to Cut Deep” (2024) for its permanent collection to support educational initiatives at Northwestern University.
Curated by Kathleen Bickford Berzock along with Janet Dees and Jacqueline Lopez, the exhibition receives support from various entities including the Alsdorf Gallery Endowment and Illinois Arts Council.
Jordan Ann Craig was born in San Jose in 1992 but now resides in Pojoaque Valley, New Mexico. Her education includes a bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College in studio art and psychology. Her works are part of several prestigious collections including those at the Guggenheim Museum in New York.
The Block Museum aims to foster questioning and collaboration across disciplines with visual arts as its core focus.