Edward S. Curtis (1868–1952) is one of the distinguished individuals of the late-nineteenth century who left an indelible mark on the culture of the twentieth century. In the 1890s, this successful studio photographer from Seattle, who was mostly self-taught in the art of photography, set upon himself to produce the most comprehensive recording of the life of Native Americans in both word and image. His text, edited by Frederick Webb Hodges, secretary of the Bureau of American Ethnology of the Smithsonian Institution, was impressive but his images were spectacular: more than 40,000 were captured over 30 years by Curtis using first a view camera, and later reflex cameras.

The richly-illustrated twenty leather-bound volumes titled The North American Indian and the accompanying portfolios with over-sized photogravures were the results of his ethnographic and photographic passion.

For this exhibition, the Tyler Museum of Art selected twenty-six large photogravures from the first twelve portfolios accompanying the respective volumes of this oeuvre for this exhibition.

The Tyler Museum of Art thanks Tyler Junior College and Margaret Wallender for their generous loan to this exhibition.

The American Indian through the Eyes of Edward S. Curtis was organized by the Tyler Museum of Art.

Collectors' Circle Member Sponsor is Jean and Graham Devoe Williford Charitable Trust.