Pencil sketch of a person with a long, single braid surrounded by a painting of plant life and beads. Title of exhibition: Creation: The Process of an Indigenous Artist

Creation: The Process of an Indigenous Artist
 is a contemporary art exhibition featuring Menominee and Two-Spirit artist Joshua Frederick. Exploring the artist’s creative journey from inspiration to completion, the exhibition reveals the craftsmanship, cultural significance and storytelling behind each work while celebrating the importance of contemporary Native art. The exhibition opens with a free public reception on Saturday, September 5, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. and will remain on view through January 31, 2027.

Growing up in Wisconsin, Joshua was often told that Native American art was not "real" art—a misconception they have spent their career challenging. Through sketches, materials, and finished works, Creation highlights their artistic process and the experiences that shape it, reflecting a belief in the power of art to heal, educate, inspire, and strengthen connections to Indigenous culture.

Public Programs:
All events are located at the Maidu Museum & Historic Site unless otherwise noted.

  • Exhibition Opening Reception: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 5:00-7:00 PM. Free admission. All ages welcome. Meet the artist and enjoy light refreshments as we celebrate the opening of Creation.

  • Exhibition Tour with Artist, Joshua Frederick: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 2:00-3:00 PM. $10/person. All ages welcome. Join artist Joshua Frederick for an all-ages tour of the exhibition, Creation: The Process of an Indigenous Artist. Learn more about the artist's process, personal stories and cultural influences behind the work. Includes admission to the Maidu Museum & Historic Site. Register at: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/cityofroseville/activity/search/detail/16788 (registration opens Aug. 11)

  • Painted Blessings Workshop: Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM. Location: Maidu Activity Center, 1960 Johnson Ranch Drive, Roseville. $50/person; $45 for Museum Members. Ages 13 & up. Join artist Joshua Frederick for a painting workshop where you’ll create a “blessing” inspired by Native symbolism. Choose a Medicine Wheel, Eagle Feather, or Stylized Morning Star and paint an 8” x 10” acrylic piece—perfect for beginners and meaningful as a gift, personal, or meditative work. Register at: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/cityofroseville/activity/search/detail/16737 (registration opens Aug. 11)

  • Closing Reception with Mamāsaehkaw (“Movement”) Fashion Show: Sunday, January 31, 5:00 – 7:00 PM. Free admission. All ages welcome. Celebrating the energy of movement through flowing textiles and dynamic design, the Mamāsaehkaw Fashion Show serves as the culminating event for Creation: The Process of an Indigenous Artist. Extending the exhibition’s themes, the show explores transformation and renewal, honoring the movement of spirit as it shifts beyond narratives of removal toward expressions of resilience, creativity, and connection.