The Heard Museum’s collection of Indigenous/Native American artifacts, particularly those representing tribes of the American Southwest is unsurpassed, attracting visitors from across the globe. The Heard also houses expansive galleries, exhibiting an intriguing collection of contemporary works by world renowned artists. Since it’s opening in 1929, the eight-acre museum campus has been a centerpiece of one of the most attractive locations in central Phoenix. The museum was founded by Dwight Heard and his wife Maie who settled in Phoenix in 1895.
Originally from Chicago, they were eager to help provide the fledgling town with some cultural amenities – which were sorely lacking. The Heard family had considerable means as Maie Bartlett Heard’s father Adolphus was a partner with a large retailer that would eventually become the True Value Hardware Stores chain. This, along with their prominence in local politics and social life, and their penchant for collecting made the couple ideally disposed towards establishing the museum that bears their name. During the ensuing decades the museum has grown and evolved with Phoenix and hosts a number of annual events such as the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest, lectures, workshops and storytelling sessions.
The Heard Museum, though, is best known for its vast collection of baskets, clothing, jewelry, pottery and other artifacts representing some two dozen tribes that have long inhabited the region which comprises present day Arizona, New Mexico, and north-central Sonora, Mexico. One of the most attention-grabbing exhibits is a Pueblo oven, shaped much like a beehive which this tribe built outside of their homes. These were constructed of abode (dried mud) to bake bread and are still used today. It’s entertaining to imagine what it must have been like preparing food in these ovens hundreds of years ago before convenient modern electric or gas ovens were invented.
On the other hand, items such as the displays of turquoise & silver jewelry somehow seem more timeless, having a bewitching appeal. I never tire of gazing at jewelry collections — thinking about the talent, time, and patience that some tribes such as the Zuni possessed (and still do) to create such exquisite pieces that can be passed down through the generations. Long before the first European settlers arrived native tribes were mining turquoise of all types, although the light blue color seems to be most prevalent in jewelry and other crafts. The Heard also contains a vast array of creative baskets made by the Apaches and other tribes. Basket making is also an art, requiring skill and patience with creating something that is not only beautiful but functional as well.
The collections of pottery and katsina dolls (which were used as messengers between humans and the spirit world) are also fascinating to view, and while visitors are free to explore the exhibits on their own, it’s good to follow along on the guided tours which are offered several times per day. The museum guides are very knowledgeable and a great deal about the history of the exhibits can be gleaned from them. The galleries are also not to be missed, and contain very thought provoking paintings and photography by various Native American artists, each with an interesting story behind it. The Heard Museum also contains a bookstore, gift shop, and cafe for those who would like to have lunch or snacks.
The outdoor seating is enjoyable and ideal while visiting the museum between November to March, before the desert heat becomes oppressive. One of the biggest events hosted at the Heard annually is the “El Mercado de Las Artes” usually held in November, which hosts artworks of all types by Hispanic artists from all parts of Arizona and New Mexico. The strolling Mariachi bands accompanying this are something I have regrettably missed, but would love to experience. There’s always a good reason for a return visit!
For more information about when to visit the Heard Museum or check out the workshops and other events, please go to the following website:
