Exploring America's Landscapes: The Huntington's 'This Land Is...' Exhibit
The Huntington's new exhibit, "This Land Is...," features a cross-section of a 250-year-old Pasadena oak tree uprooted in a 1993 windstorm, symbolizing the country's complex past and the role of land in its history. Curated by Linde B. Lehtinen, Josh Garrett-Davis, and Armando Pulido, the exhibit showcases various works that explore the theme of land as a space of promise, struggle, and belonging. Visitors can draw their own conclusions about the significance of land in American history.
The exhibit, opening at the Huntington's MaryLou and George Boone Gallery, presents a diverse collection of works that reflect on the American experience. From Woody Guthrie's iconic guitar with the inscription "This Machine Kills Fascists" to a panoramic portrait of the Kuromi family and a haunting photo of fallen soldiers after the Battle of Gettysburg, the exhibit delves into different aspects of American history and the relationship with the land.
One of the highlights of the exhibit is a display on Otis Reed "Dock" Marston, a historian and river runner who meticulously documented the Colorado River. Marston's collection of photographs and maps offers a unique perspective on the West Coast and the idea of independence as it unfolds across time and place. The exhibit aims to showcase the breadth of American history from a West Coast lens, highlighting the visual culture of the region.
In a nod to Haiti's independence from French colonial rule in 1804, the exhibit features a mural by Noni Olabisi titled "Troubled Island," which chronicles the Haitian struggle for freedom. The mural connects Haiti's fight for independence to the broader narrative of American history, emphasizing the interconnectedness of different struggles for freedom and independence. Through diverse works and narratives, "This Land Is..." invites visitors to explore the multifaceted relationship between land and American identity.
In conclusion, the Huntington's new exhibit, "This Land Is...," offers a thought-provoking exploration of the role of land in American history. From the fallen oak tree to iconic artifacts and artworks, the exhibit presents a rich tapestry of narratives that reflect the complexity of the American experience. By examining different perspectives and stories, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the significance of land as a geographical and metaphorical space in shaping the country's past and present.