Contemporary Anishinaabe Art: A Continuation is the Detroit Institute of Arts’ first Native American exhibition in more than 30 years—and it’s an absolute must-see. Featuring more than 90 works that highlight the creativity, resilience, and living traditions of Anishinaabe artists, this groundbreaking show is just the beginning. We’ve lined up music, talks, and even a blockbuster movie experience to keep the celebration going.

Here’s how you can join the fun:

Public Opening

Sunday, September 28, Noon – 2 p.m.

Join us for a meaningful day of art, music, and community! Be there for the official dedication of Jason Quigno’s awe-inspiring sculpture Maawandoonan (Bring Them Together) on the Woodward lawn.

The afternoon will be packed with songs by Asiginaak-Negamojig (Blackbird Singers), interactive hands-on art activities for all ages (including a guest artist workshop on the North Lawn with Konstance Patton) and self-guided exhibition tours. It’s sure to be an unforgettable visit.

And don’t miss artmaking in the studio from Noon – 4 p.m., a creative activity the whole family can enjoy!

Thomas X 

Friday, October 3, 7 p.m. 
Saturday, October 4, 2 p.m. 

Get ready for a high-energy experience with Thomas X, a hip-hop artist from the Red Lake Nation in northern Minnesota. Known for his dynamic style and powerful lyrics, Thomas X blends contemporary beats with messages that honor his Anishinaabe roots. This show is perfect for all ages! 

Anangong Miigaading: Star Wars: A New Hope 

Saturday, October 4, 11 a.m. and Sunday, October 5, 11 a.m. 

Calling all Star Wars fans! Experience the 1977 blockbuster A New Hope in Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe), an original language of the Great Lakes region, with English subtitles. It's more than a movie—it’s a special moment to honor and preserve a language that will continue for generations. This film kicks off a six-month series of free films that coincide with the exhibition.

Discussion & Book Signing with Angeline Boulley

Monday, October 13, 6 p.m.

Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day with Angeline Boulley, the New York Times bestselling author behind Firekeeper’s Daughter and Warrior Girl Unearthed. She’ll be sharing from her brand-new release, Sisters in the Wind, followed by a book signing and a chance to explore the exhibition. Boulley’s work, rooted in her Ojibwe heritage, brings Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to life in ways you won’t want to miss.

Bonus: In honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the DIA will open on Monday, October 13 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. with free admission to the Contemporary Anishinaabe Art exhibition and our Native American galleries.

Songs in Anishinaabemowin

Saturday, November 15, 2 p.m. 

Get ready for an afternoon of music, culture, and laughter with Helen Peltier Fuhst. She brings new life to classic hits by Elvis, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, and Tom Petty by singing them in Anishinaabemowin. With David Fuhst on guitar, the program blends music, storytelling, and language into a lively mix of concert, cultural lesson, and conversation.