The Poarch Band of Creek Indians Museum has opened a new exhibit, “Illustrating the Native Southeast: Art, Culture, and Traditions,” offering visitors an in-depth look at the artwork, traditions, and daily life of Southeastern Native tribes through the pages of two influential books by Emma Lila Fundaburk.
The exhibit takes visitors behind the scenes of Fundaburk’s groundbreaking publications, which helped preserve the visual history and cultural traditions of Native communities across the Southeast.
Among the featured works is Sun Circles and Human Hands, widely regarded as one of the most influential books on Southeastern archaeology. The publication documents Native art, craftsmanship, and material culture through detailed illustrations and historical research.
Also highlighted is Southeastern Indians: Life Portraits, a collection of paintings and drawings depicting Southeastern Native people created by various artists. Together, the books provide a sweeping visual record of Native artistry, community life, and cultural continuity throughout the American Southeast.
According to museum officials, the exhibit demonstrates how the books’ lasting influence continues through the preservation of images, designs, and histories that may otherwise have been lost over time.
For the Poarch Creek Indians, the textiles, objects, and imagery documented in the publications are not simply artifacts of the past, but part of living traditions that continue through art, teaching, research, and community memory.
“We’re proud and excited to share this new exhibit, from its memorable images to the histories they capture, with our community and everyone who visits the Poarch Creek Indian Museum,” said Amber Alvarez, Museum Director. “It’s a unique chance to experience this lasting record of Native art and life in the Southeast.”
“Illustrating the Native Southeast: Art, Culture, and Traditions” will remain on display at the Poarch Creek Indians Museum through November 2026. Admission is free.