New exhibition shows how religions have shaped American history

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – A new exhibit at the Eiteljorg Museum in downtown Indianapolis called “Acts of Faith: Religion and The American West” features paintings, cultural objects and exhibits from various faiths, including Christian, Muslim, Jewish and Sikh faiths spanning more than 200 years.

“People want to have compassionate, caring conversations, and they just need the space and place to do that,” says Jessica Nelson, guest curator.

At a time when religion is divisive, Nelson says a traveling exhibition on religion could be a way to spark conversations.

“I think there are a lot of moments to reflect on the way religious violence has affected people, but also how religion has been a force for bringing community and togetherness to different places,” Nelson said.

Nelson showed a mural of New Mexican indigenous people with a statue of San Ysidro, a patron saint of farmers for Catholics. Right next to the mural is a late 19^e century statue that would have been used at that time. It shows the saint plowing fields with an angel at his side.

There are twenty different stories. These stories include Native Americans, African American migrants, Jewish traders, and Chinese immigrants.

“I think this will provide a much deeper reflection on how and what it means to be American,” said an unnamed visitor.

The exhibition runs until August 4.