Indian Arts Research Center Director to discuss tribal consultation

Brian Vallo, director of the Indian Arts Research Center (IARC), will discuss his efforts to learn more about each of the 12,000 objects in their collection 1 p.m., Monday, Nov. 16, at the Chickasaw Cultural Center’s Anoli’ Theatre.

Vallo’s presentation is titled “Tribal Consultation in a New Light: The Work of the Indian Arts Research Center at the School for Advanced Research.”

He will focus the presentation on the IARC’s current Collections Review Initiative as he works with tribal communities to learn more about each piece of the collection composed of ceramics, textiles, basketry, paintings, carvings, and jewelry.

With one of the most complete collections known to scholars, artists and tribal communities, the IARC strives to learn information needed to remain culturally sensitive as they maintain long-term stewardship of these collections.

“These groundbreaking initiatives sets a new benchmark for the way in which institutions interact with tribal communities towards verification of existing data, and improving overall collections management processes,” Vallo said.

Vallo will also discuss the IARC’s communication efforts with tribal experts and museum conservators to assist in development of guidelines which will provide direction for museums who house Native American collections.

He will also share information about the current engagement with his own tribe, Acoma Pueblo.

Vallo joined the IARC as director in 2015. He has 25 years of experience working with tribal groups throughout the Southwest.

A former lieutenant governor, director of historic preservation, and founding director of the Haakú Museum at Acoma, his recent work experience extends into the fields of architecture, planning, and the arts.

In addition to his work at Acoma, he served as the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center museum director, taught at UNM’s School of Architecture and Planning, and has served on a several boards.

About The Indian Arts Research Center - School for Advanced Research

The Indian Arts Research Center (IARC) at the School for Advanced Research has a mission to bridge the divide between creativity and scholarship by supporting initiatives and projects in Native studies, art history, and creative expression.

The School for Advanced Research was established in Santa Fe, New Mexico in 1907 as a center for the study of the archaeology and ethnology of the American Southwest. Since 1967, the scope of the School’s activities has embraced a global perspective through programs to encourage advanced scholarship in anthropology and related social science disciplines and the humanities, and to facilitate the work of Native American scholars and artists.

Vallo’s lecture is free and open to the public.

For more information, call (580) 622-7130 or visit http://www.chickasawculturalcenter.com.