Taiomah Rutledge’s artist talk will set the pace for the Ulrich’s newest series, “In Place.” Rutledge is a multidisciplinary artist who emphasizes First Nation narratives in his work.

A co-founder of the Warclan Art Collective, Rutledge emphasizes identity and community building in his art and in his role as a community leader. He is of Objiwe, Meskawaki and Dakota descent.

“Our biggest priority is just to get people more culturally literate and get them studying up, reading up on who they are, right, and that sense of belonging and building community,” said Rutledge.

Rutledge is the creative mind behind the current exhibition “Taiomah Rutledge: Origins/Evolution,” which will run to July 25. The installation is on display on the Ulrich’s first floor and was curated by former Ulrich Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art Jo Reinert.

The exhibition intertwines heritage and Indigenous futurism, creating a visceral dialogue through its mixture of techniques and mediums. 

Throughout his work, Rutledge has exemplified a drive towards progress while also denying monolithic Indigenous narratives.

The “In Place” series highlights Wichita artists such as Rutledge and will bring in three new artists to the Ulrich. 

The series “demonstrates the Ulrich’s commitment to expanding human experience through encounters with the art of our time by platforming artists who live, create and innovate right here in the Wichita area, our shared place,” according to the Museum’s website.

Rutledge’s talk will be held on March 5, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event is free and will take place in the Ulrich’s Polk/Wilson Gallery.