Minnesota State Capitol Photography Exhibit Honors Legacies of Indigenous Cultural Leaders

ST. PAUL, Minn (November 26, 2024) – A collection of intimate portraits that honors the voices and legacies of influential Indigenous leaders will be on view for free at the Minnesota State Capitol’s 3rd Floor Exhibit Gallery. Portraits of Indigenous Authors and Artists is a 30-year project by photographer John Ratzloff.

The collection began when Ratzloff was invited to photograph the life and natural beauty of White Earth Nation; his photography offers a unique visual narrative that celebrates the contributions to art, culture, and advocacy of Indigenous writers and creators.

The exhibit will run December 1 - June 30. Admission to the Minnesota State Capitol, including the gallery, is free. The building is open weekdays from 8 am–5 pm and Saturdays from 10 am–3 pm. Parking information and directions are available here.

The 3rd Floor Exhibit Gallery exists for Minnesota artists to tell Minnesota stories. Artists are selected by the Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee and approved by the State Capitol Preservation Commission. The selection process ensures a range of artists are considered and that, over the course of many exhibits, the art reflects the broad diversity and experiences of Minnesotans. Preference is given to artists currently living in Minnesota or who were living in the state at the time the art was portrayed.

This exhibit is made possible by the voters of Minnesota, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

About the Minnesota Historical Society

The Minnesota Historical Society is a non-profit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. MNHS collects, preserves and tells the story of Minnesota’s past through museum exhibits, libraries and collections, historic sites, educational programs, and book publishing. Using the power of history to transform lives, MNHS preserves our past, shares our state’s stories, and connects people with history.