Indigenous people around the world celebrate their culture through dance. 

Sarasota artist Jenny Medved is working to preserve moments of their movement and expression in dance through her watercolor and pastel work.

ArtCenter Manatee's newest exhibition, "Indigenous People: Portraits of Heritage and Descent," on display through July 27, spotlights Medved's ongoing efforts.

"She works very closely with the dancers that she portrays,” explained Cathy Mijou, Development Coordinator at Art Center Manatee, “and then she even allows them to name the paintings in their own language."

Those languages include the native languages of North America, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, New Zealand, Tahiti and Hawaii.

"There are so many facets to native culture,” said Mijou. “And so by taking portraits in their native costume and in the environment that they grew up in, she is honoring them.”

It’s honoring and preserving their culture through art for the greater world community, but especially for the youngest of the dancers portrayed—so they may know their people.

A portion of each portrait sold goes back to the native group organizations that she partners with to make contact with dancers.

"Koda and Kiddo" by Jenny Medved
"Koda and Kiddo" is one of 30 artworks by Sarasota artist Jenny Medved on display at ArtCenter Manatee through July 27 as part of her "Indigenous Peoples: Portraits of Heritage and Descent" exhibit. (Virginia Johnson, staff)