Anishinaabensag Biimskowebshkigewag (Native Kids Ride Bikes) is an exhibition featuring lowrider bicycles created by urban Native youth, contemporary Indigenous artists, and non-Native university students in Michigan. The exhibition’s central theme of bikes and mobility—physical and economic—are based on the sacred Anishinaabeg teachings known as Niizhwaaswi G’mishomisinaanig or Our Seven Grandfathers. The lead project artists imparted these seven core values, along with Métis and Cayuse knowledge to the youth through a series of workshops, and the values are echoed in the bikes they created.

This exhibition is based on a project funded through a National Museum of the American Indian’s Artist Leadership Grant.

The exhibition includes seven lowrider bicycles, twenty-two photographs, a video of the production of the bicycles, 250 felt pennants, and eight flags. The pennants and flags include concepts from the Anishnaabeg teachings such as Nbwaakaawin (Wisdom), Zaagi’idiwin (Love), Minaadendamowin (Respect), and Aakwa’ode’ewin (Bravery).

Weisman Art Museum

Weisman Art Museum