An Indigenous man makes colorful art on ledger paper

Ledger Art

This Indigenous artistic tradition has existed since the late 19th century
An Indigenous man holds up a piece of ledger paper with his art atop it

The painting of animal hides shifted to ledger art in the late 19th century when buffalo became scarce, thanks to ledger books that came from traders and other sources. The art was revived in the 1960s and remains an important artistic tradition for tribes. Because of their fragility, most galleries rotate their drawing display to prevent degradation. But chances are you'll be able to see this unique form of art at:

See below for even more places to learn more about this fascinating and unique art form across South Dakota!

Native Art

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McCrossan Boys Ranch, Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls
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