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The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. will open a special installation titled “Making a Statement” Feb. 28.
The installation will display two gowns worn by Oscar-nominated actor Lily Gladstone (Siksikaitsitapi [Blackfeet]/Nimiipuu [Nez Perce]). It will close in March 2026.
Both gowns were a custom collaboration, designed by Gucci and Indigenous artist Joe Big Mountain (Mohawk/Cree/Comanche) of Ironhorse Quillwork.
The gowns were worn by Gladstone the evening of March 10, 2024, to the 96th Academy Awards and the Vanity Fair Oscars party. Gladstone was the first Native American nominated for best actress for her work in the film Killers of the Flower Moon.
“Lily Gladstone has made it her hallmark to showcase Native designers at star-studded events like the Oscars,” said Anya Montiel, museum curator. “The elegant designs mark the first Oscars collaboration between an Indigenous artist and a luxury fashion brand like Gucci. We are thrilled to be able to share these amazing works of art with our visitors.”
One gown, worn by Gladstone to the Oscars ceremony, is midnight-blue velvet with a porcupine-quill neckline and a matching cape with 216 hand-quilled and beaded petals. The second gown was worn to the Vanity FairOscars party that same evening. It is a black corseted dress with chevron-patterned beaded fringe and porcupine-quill neckline. The intricate design features 24 carat gold-plated beads, glass beads and brass sequins.
Four public programs around “Making a Statement” are planned in March 2025.
Indigenous Couture and Style
Friday, March 14, 7 p.m.
National Museum of the American Indian, Washington, D.C.
Rasmuson Theater
The museum hosts an evening of conversation with quillwork artist Joe Big Mountain, Sunshine Big Mountain and fashion designer and celebrity stylist Jason Rembert. Vogue fashion and style writer Christian Allaire moderates. The event is free, but tickets are required to guarantee a seat in the theater.
Indigenous Fashion Showcase
Saturday, March 15, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
National Museum of the American Indian, Washington, D.C.
Potomac Atrium
Indigenous fashion designers will unveil their latest works and demonstrate their craft. Visitors can enjoy a one-of-a-kind fashion showcase, meet the designers and purchase their unique works. Designers include Dorothy Grant (Haida); Joe Big Mountain (Mohawk/Cree/Comanche); Lauren Good Day (Arikara/Hidatsa/Blackfeet/Plains Cree); and Bethany Yellowtail (Apsáalooke [Crow/Absaroke]/Northern Tsitsistas/Suhtai [Cheyenne]).
Curator Tour: “Making a Statement”
Saturday, March 15, 11 a.m.
National Museum of the American Indian, Washington, D.C.
Third floor
Curator Anya Montiel (Mestiza/Tohono O'odham descent) will offer a close look at the museum’s special installation “Making a Statement” featuring the custom Gucci gowns worn by actress Lily Gladstone (Siksikaitsitapi [Blackfeet]/Nimiipuu [Nez Perce]) at the 96th Academy Awards.
Women’s History Month: Stories and Conversation on Indigenous Design
Saturday, March 15, 1 p.m.
National Museum of the American Indian, Washington, D.C.
Rasmuson Theater
Visitors can celebrate groundbreaking Indigenous designers whose inspiring creations challenge the boundaries of fashion and expand perceptions of Indigenous cultures. The designers will reflect on their personal inspirations and motivations for styling and creating clothing and accessories for women.
For additional information, including hours and directions, visit AmericanIndian.si.edu