From the Artist - Del Curfman:
The Apsaalooke’ Room incorporates the Great Plains narrative, traditional Apsaalooke’ (Crow Nation of Montana) imagery, and a historical recollection into an inviting room full of nostalgic images and bold, brilliant colors. Guests should be propelled into the great plains of eastern Montana and achieve an experience of a different culture, a different time, and a different geological space. The Apsaalooke’ room features a Crow brave gazing upon an open prairie with the last dwindling herd of buffalo. The American bison or buffalo is sacred to not only the Crow but also the entire Northern Plains Tribes and was the bloodline of life for us all. Facing them on the adjacent wall is part of the Pryor Mountains, a sacred place for the Crow people. The final image in the room is the portrayal of the symbolic Crow. The room utilizes the open floor plan and natural light to construct the “Big Sky Country” that the Crow have called home for thousands of years.
About Del Curfman:
Best known for his work with Apsaalooke’ (Crow Nation of Montana) imagery and cultural meaning, Del Curfman explores heritage, tradition, and humanity through painting. His work often incorporates techniques and styles of impressionism. With loose brushwork and semi-abstraction, he captures the essence of nature. Obtaining his BFA in Studio Arts with a focus on painting at the Institute of American Indian Arts of Santa Fe, NM (IAIA) in May 2017 emerging artist and enrolled tribal member, Curfman looks to contribute to contemporary Native Artist history through his work in oil paints and community-based projects.