We’re honored to share the remarkable story behind our current exhibition, Southwest x Midwest, on view April 23rd through May 2nd.

Please join us for the opening reception on Sunday, April 26th from 4–7 PM.

On September 1, 1939—the very day World War II began—Jackie and Henry Angelino were married. Soon after, they moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where Henry began his Master’s studies in anthropology at the University of New Mexico.

The two first met in Nebraska, where Henry was cataloging Native American artifacts following his 1938 graduation from NYU, supported by a WPA grant. Their connection deepened during an early trip together to a Pow Wow in South Dakota, sparking a shared appreciation for Native art and culture.

While Henry worked as a supervisor of Navajo silversmiths during his studies, Jackie spent her days visiting nearby pueblos. There, she discovered that local grocers were charging Native women significantly higher prices for basic goods. Troubled by this, Jackie began purchasing sugar herself, biking it out to the pueblos, and reselling it at fair cost. Through this simple but powerful act, she built meaningful and lasting relationships within the community.

Over time, Jackie became close friends with many potters and weavers, collecting works directly from the artists alongside Henry. These pieces—acquired through trust, respect, and personal connection—form the heart of this collection.

In 1943, after completing his degree, Henry was drafted into the Army, closing this chapter of their lives. What remains is a deeply personal and historically rich collection that reflects both a moment in time and the relationships that shaped it.

We’re proud to share this collection with you and hope you’ll join us.