Free | Open to the Public
Hosted by Lakota Youth Stay

Lakota Stories: Artistic Expressions showcases the creativity, culture, and perspectives of Lakota youth participating in the YouthStay program—a weeklong homestay experience that brings Native youth from the Pine Ridge Reservation to the greater Medford area. The goal of YouthStay is to spark meaningful connections and mutual understanding between Native and non-Native communities through shared experiences and genuine friendship.

During their stay, the Lakota youth are welcomed by local host families and take part in a variety of fun, hands-on, and educational activities. Life on the reservation comes with unique challenges, and YouthStay creates space for participants to step outside their day-to-day routines, discover new interests, and imagine new possibilities for themselves and their futures.

A highlight of the week is a photography workshop with Susan D’Arcy Fuller, where the youth learn how to capture creative and compelling images. Thanks to the continued support from Arts Alive, each participant gets to use a digital camera and document their experiences throughout the week. The exhibit culminates in a celebration, where the community gathers to view the powerful photos taken by the youth.

This year, Lakota Stories: Artistic Expressions also features traditional ledger art, hand-sewn star quilts, and crafts from the Pine Ridge Reservation—offering a deeper look at the artistic traditions and personal stories of the Lakota community. We’re honored to share their work with you. Thanks for joining us—we hope you enjoy the exhibit!

On Display Through August 2