Hood Museum of Art, Dartmouth: Cara Romero: Panûpünüwügai (Living Light)

Cara Romero: Illuminating Indigenous Stories Through Photography

The Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth College presents “Panûpünüwügai (Living Light),” a captivating exhibition showcasing the powerful photography of Cara Romero. Running from January 18, 2025, to August 10, 2025, the exhibition explores the complexities of Indigenous identity, resilience, and cultural revitalization through Romero’s masterful lens.

Beyond Light and Shadow: Unveiling the Meaning of “Panûpünüwügai”

The exhibition’s title, “Panûpünüwügai,” a Chemehuevi word meaning “living light,” holds deep significance for Romero’s artistic vision. As Jami C. Powell, Associate Director for Curatorial Affairs and Curator of Indigenous Art at the Hood Museum, explains, “The Chemehuevi word panûpünüwügai, which translates to “living light,” encompasses multiple meanings: the spirit of light; the way light interacts with people; and how both light and people are enlivened through thes interactions. We see its rich implications in the art of Cara Romero,who both paints with light in her photography and brings light to the stories she tells.”

Reclaiming Narratives and Celebrating Resilience

Romero’s photography series, often portraits of Indigenous women and families, transcends mere documentation. It becomes a powerful tool for reclaiming narratives and celebrating the strength and resilience of Indigenous communities.

Her work shines a light on the beauty, complexity, and diversity of Indigenous cultures, challenging prevailing stereotypes and offering a glimpse into the richness of their traditions and experiences. Through her lens, Romero captures the essence of Indigenous identity, showcasing the profound connection to ancestral lands, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs.

A Call to Dialogue and Understanding

Romero’s exhibition is more than just a display of art; it’s an invitation to dialogue and understanding. By bringing indigenous stories to the forefront, Romero aims to bridge cultural divides and foster empathy and respect.

“It’s vital to amplify Indigenous voices and perspectives,” Romero emphasizes. “Through my work, I hope to create a space for meaningful conversations about indigenous culture, history, and the ongoing challenges we face.”

The exhibition encourages viewers to engage with Indigenous perspectives, to learn about the historical and contemporary realities of Indigenous communities, and to become allies in the fight for justice and equity.

“Panûpünüwügai (Living Light)”: A Testament to Cultural Preservation

The title of the exhibition, “Panûpünüwügai (Living Light),” is more than just a poetic phrase; it embodies the spirit of cultural preservation and resilience that runs through the heart of Romero’s work. It signifies the enduring strength of Indigenous traditions and the unwavering commitment to keeping them alive for future generations. Through her art, Romero illuminates the essential role of storytelling and depiction in preserving cultural heritage and ensuring its continued relevance in a rapidly changing world.

Cara Romero’s “Panûpünüwügai (Living Light)” is a must-see exhibition for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of Indigenous identity, the power of visual storytelling, and the importance of amplifying marginalized voices.

Cara Romero: Illuminating Indigenous Stories through Photography

Cara Romero’s artistry transcends conventional photography. By seamlessly blending darkroom techniques and digital manipulation, she creates vibrant and thought-provoking images that challenge dominant narratives often perpetuated by colonial forces. Rather than portraying Indigenous peoples solely through the lens of decline or erasure, Romero centers their humanity, vitality, and strength, paving the way for a more nuanced and accurate representation of Indigenous experiences. As art historian Powell observes, “While Romero’s complex images frequently enough speak to the injustices of colonialism, they are also careful to center the humanity and vitality of her subjects.”

Through her work, Romero invites viewers to engage with crucial themes such as appropriation, reclamation, environmental racism, rematriation, and Indigenous futurisms. her exhibition,”Panûpünüwügai (Living light),” currently captivating audiences at the Hood Museum of art,serves as a powerful testament to these themes.

Beyond Light and Shadow: Exploring the Meaning of “Panûpünüwügai”

The exhibition’s title, “Panûpünüwügai,” is a Chemehuevi word that carries profound significance for Romero. “It encompasses the spirit of light, the way light interacts with people, and how both light and people are enlivened by those interactions,” she explains.

Romero’s photography often utilizes light and shadow to create depth and meaning,but it also serves to illuminate the stories and experiences of Indigenous peoples. This intentional merging of her artistic technique with the deeper meaning of the exhibition’s title creates a potent and multi-layered experience for the viewer.

Reclaiming Narratives and Celebrating Resilience

Romero’s work goes beyond mere aesthetics; it is a powerful act of reclamation.By showcasing the strength, beauty, and resilience of Indigenous communities, she challenges stereotypical portrayals and offers a more authentic and nuanced viewpoint. Her photographs serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggles and triumphs of Indigenous peoples, highlighting their cultural richness and their enduring connection to their ancestral lands.

“Panûpünüwügai (Living Light)” is more than an exhibition; it is a call to dialogue, introspection, and a deeper understanding of Indigenous perspectives. Whether you possess extensive knowledge of Native American history or are just beginning to explore these vital issues, Romero’s work offers a profound and poignant experience that resonates with all who encounter it.

Visit the Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth College to witness cara Romero’s captivating exhibition and embark on a journey of discovery and understanding.

Reclaiming Narratives: The Art of Cara Romero

native American photographer Cara Romero utilizes her art as a powerful tool for storytelling, defying stereotypes and celebrating the resilience of Indigenous cultures. Her work, showcased in the exhibition “Panûpünüwügai (Living Light)”, delves into the richness of Indigenous experiences, presenting them on their own terms.

Challenging Perceptions

Romero emphasizes the importance of representing Indigenous narratives authentically. “It’s essential for me to present Indigenous experiences on our own terms, challenging the stereotypical and often harmful narratives that have been perpetuated for generations,” she explains. “My photographs are about showing the humanity, strength, and beauty of indigenous people, showcasing our rich cultures, traditions, and ongoing resilience in the face of adversity.”

A Fusion of Tradition and innovation

Romero’s artistic process combines customary darkroom techniques with contemporary digital manipulation. This unique approach allows her to bridge the gap between the past and the present, grounding her work in historical context while exploring abstract and symbolic expressions.”I find that the combination of these techniques allows me to create images that are both grounded in a sense of history and tradition, yet also contemporary and relevant,” Romero states. “The darkroom process gives me a sense of tactile connection to the images, while the digital manipulation allows me to explore more abstract and symbolic expressions.”

A Call for Understanding

“Ultimately, I want people to walk away with a greater understanding of Indigenous cultures and perspectives,” Romero hopes. “I hope my work encourages dialogue, empathy, and a willingness to learn more about the lived experiences of Indigenous peoples. We all have a role to play in creating a more just and equitable world for all.”

By offering a glimpse into the lives and experiences of Indigenous peoples, Romero’s art invites viewers to engage in meaningful conversations and contribute to a more inclusive and understanding world.

What impact does cara Romero hope her work will have on viewers?

Illuminating Resilience: An Interview wiht Cara Romero

Cara Romero, a prominent Native American photographer, is renowned for her captivating images that celebrate Indigenous cultures adn challenge prevailing stereotypes. Her exhibition, “Panûpünüwügai (Living Light)”, at the Hood Museum of Art, showcases her masterful ability to blend tradition and innovation, creating compelling visual narratives that illuminate the complexities of indigenous experiences.

Capturing the Essence of Indigenous Identity

Q: Cara, your art frequently explores themes of identity, resilience, and cultural revitalization. What inspires you to delve into these subjects?

A: It is deeply important to me to capture the essence of Indigenous identity on our own terms. For too long, our stories have been told through the lens of colonial narratives, frequently enough portraying us as victims or relics of the past. Through my photographs, I aim to showcase the vibrancy, strength, and ongoing resilience of Indigenous cultures.I want to celebrate our traditions, our connection to the land, and our unique perspectives on the world.

Bridging Past and Present

Q: Your artistic process combines traditional darkroom techniques with contemporary digital manipulation. How do these techniques contribute to your storytelling?

A: The fusion of these approaches allows me to bridge the gap between past and present. The darkroom process provides a tangible connection to history and tradition, grounding my work in ancestral practices. Digital manipulation enables me to explore abstract and symbolic expressions, bringing a contemporary edge to my images. It’s about finding a balance between honoring tradition and embracing innovation.

A Call to Dialog and Empathy

Q: What impact do you hope your work will have on viewers?

A: I hope my photographs will spark dialogue,encourage empathy,and challenge preconceived notions about Indigenous peoples. It’s crucial for us to listen to Indigenous voices, learn about our histories and cultures, and work together to create a more just and equitable world.

Visiting Cara Romero’s “Panûpünüwügai (Living Light)” exhibition at the Hood Museum of Art offers a profound opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of Indigenous experiences, celebrated through the powerful lens of photography.