Storytellers: The Blackfeet Nation and Charles M. Russell

Storytellers: The Blackfeet Nation and Charles M. Russell is a major exhibition at the Denver Art Museum exploring the relationship between Blackfeet (Nitsitapii) cultural works and artist Charles M. Russell’s portrayals of the “Old West.” It features 80+ artworks, including Russell oil paintings, watercolors, and bronzes alongside ancestral works from the Blackfoot Confederacy—especially the Kainai (Blood Tribe) and Amskaapii Pikanni (Blackfeet/South Peigan). The show spans the late 19th to mid-20th centuries. A landmark gift of masterworks from collectors Tom and Jane Petrie powers this milestone presentation and significantly expands the museum’s Western American art holdings. The exhibition places Indigenous works in direct dialogue with Russell’s representations to examine accuracy, influence, and perspective. Highlights include the spiritual connection to bison and the essential contributions of Blackfeet women through beadwork, hide-tanning, and saddle making. It also spotlights Blackfeet men as warriors and medicine men, and how Russell learned from Indigenous mentors. Best for museum-goers interested in Indigenous history, Western American art, and cultural storytelling through objects and images.