Alaina Buffalo Spirit, Through A Cheyenne Woman's Eyes

The Missoula Art Museum is proud to present the work of Alaina Buffalo Spirit, a senior member of the So’taa’ee band of the Northern Cheyenne Nation and a nationally acclaimed artist. Alaina brings her unique perspective to life through the tradition of ledger art, reimagined with modern techniques on canvas.

Ledger art, originating in the mid-1800s, began as a creative outlet for Cheyenne and Kiowa warriors imprisoned at Ft. Marion, Florida. While early pieces were created on paper or cloth, the form evolved to incorporate accounting sheets and sheet music. Alaina’s work is inspired by the history of this art form and the untold stories of women who were overlooked in its early narratives.