Willits Center For The Arts
11:00 AM - 05:00 PM, every day through Sep 22, 2024.
The Willits Center for the Arts is proud to present an extraordinary exhibition featuring the works of two distinguished local artists, Eric Wilder and Buffie Campbell Schmidt. The exhibition will open on Saturday, August 31, and run through Sunday, September 22. This unique event offers an opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and artistic expressions of the Mendocino County region.
Buffie Campbell Schmidt brings to the exhibition her deep-rooted connection to the Pomo heritage. A descendant of the Sherwood, Noyo, and Yokayo Rancherias, Buffy’s art is a profound reflection of her cultural lineage. "I am from Sherwood, Noyo, and Yokayo Rancheria," Buffy explains. "My father, Thomas Campbell Sr., is from Sherwood Valley and Noyo reservation, and my mother, Christine Hamilton, is from Yokayo Rancheria. I am also from Yokayo. I was first taught how to weave a cradle basket by my mom at the age of 13. I did not come back to weaving until I was 39 years old." In addition to her work as a weaver, Buffy is also a Pomo dancer, regalia maker, wild food & medicine practitioner, and Northern Pomo Language teacher. Her contributions to the exhibition will include intricate basketry and cultural artifacts that embody the wisdom and traditions of her ancestors.
Eric Wilder, another esteemed artist and member of the Kashia Band of Pomo Indians, will showcase his contemporary works that draw from the natural beauty and cultural history of Northern California. Wilder’s artistic style is known for its vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, which capture the spirit of the landscape and the stories that it holds. His works often reflect a deep connection to the land and a commitment to preserving the cultural narratives of the Indigenous communities.
The opening reception on August 31 will feature a special opportunity to meet the artists and engage with their works. This event is more than just an exhibition; it is a celebration of the cultural heritage of the Pomo people and an invitation to the community to immerse themselves in the stories and traditions that have shaped the region.
The Willits Center for the Arts invites everyone to experience this extraordinary exhibition and to participate in the ongoing cultural dialogue that these artists inspire. The exhibition will be open to the public during the Center’s regular hours, and admission is free.
Event Details:
• Opening Reception: Saturday, August 31, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Exhibition Dates: August 31 – September 22
• Location: Willits Center for the Arts, 71 E Commercial St, Willits, CA 95490
For more information, please contact the Willits Center for the Arts at (707) 459-1726 or Gary Martin at 707-972-3326.