"Resisting cajoling from artist peers and supporters of her work who urged her to come to Sioux Falls, Dyani White Hawk held off exhibiting at the Northern Plains Indian Art Market until she had completed a master of fine arts degree at the University of Wisconsin.

She made her initial appearance at the show Saturday, armed with perspective from her Lakota background and her academic study that allows her to appreciate the inspiration that led to the creation of much of the art on display as well as the technical expertise that lifts its quality to among some of the best in the country.

She also found that her own paintings measure up. White Hawk won first- and third-place awards in oil and acrylic painting.

Under various names, the art show at the Ramkota Exhibit Hall has been in existence for 24 years. It continues from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

"We've always ranked among the top five Indian art markets in the country. Our niche is art of the Northern Plains," said Barry LeBeau, a spokesman for the event. Thirty-six exhibitors, all enrolled members of 23 Northern Plains tribes, took part in the show this year, including White Hawk, a Sicangu from the Rosebud Sioux Tribe."

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Peter Harriman: Drawing cultures together (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 9/25)