What is Native Art? Eugene Landry and the Creative Spirit Exhibition

Eugene “Gene” Landry (1937-1988) was a noted Northwest Native artist who painted from his wheelchair. His personal story is one of perseverance, of an artist who created despite setbacks, always with humor and style.  Landry's art offers a glimpse into a transitional and little-documented time in Northwest Native history. His paintings represent a Native artist’s portrayal of his own people during a time when Native Americans were erased, marginalized, and misrepresented by stereotypes in media and public education. Landry painted contemporary portraits of his people, depicting them as they were.

     For a variety of reasons—timing, geographic isolation, physical barriers due to his disability, marginalization of Native Americans in mainstream culture—Landry's art did not receive the recognition it deserved during his lifetime. This exhibition brings his work—and life—to light. Learn about Landry’s creativity, spirit, and legacy in this exhibition organized by Judith Altruda and the Washington State History Museum on view at the Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum in Ilwaco from August 15 - November 1, 2025.

There will be an opening reception on August 15 from 5-7pm with a special welcome from the Chinook Indian Nation. Image: Eugene Landry, Portrait of Winona, 1969, oil on canvas, Lent by Winona Mail Weber Image: Eugene Landry, Still Life with Elk Skull, 1970, oil on canvas, Lent by Gabriel Landry ##### The Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm. For more information, please call 360-642-3446 or visit columbiapacificheritagemuseum.org.