Chickasaw Author Perry Part Of Exhibit
Source: Chickasaw Nation Media
More than 55 original paintings by Woody Crumbo, most of which have not been seen in more than 25 years, are on display at Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa now through May 19. An accompanying book, Woody Crumbo, is part of the exhibit and features a chapter written by Chickasaw author Robert Perry.
In this book, Perry relates Crumbo’s story as told by the people who knew Crumbo best – his wife and friends. While much of the story deals with an artist struggling to achieve his dreams, Perry’s book also tells the story of a Native American man as he faces both prosperity and difficulties in the 20th century.
Mr. Perry’s participation in the Woody Crumbo book for the Gilcrease exhibit isn’t the first time he has written about Crumbo. He previously wrote a book on Crumbo called Uprising! Woody Crumbo’s Indian Art which was one of five titles to receive Honorable Mention in art category of the 2010 Eric Hoffer Award for short prose and independent books.
Perry is a member of the Chickasaw Council of Elders that advises on tribal cultural issues, an emeritus board member of the Chickasaw Historical Society, and a board member of the Chickasaw Press. He is a member of the Wordcraft Circle of Native Writers and Storytellers. Other books by Perry include Life with the Little People and The Turkey Feather Cape.
The Gilcrease exhibition is titled Bending, Weaving, Dancing: The Art of Woody Crumbo. According to the museum website, the exhibition shows audiences why this artist holds a pivotal place in what has been called the “Golden Age” of Native American painting.