​Curtis & Cuisine: A Celebration of Culture and Cuisine at Abiquiu Inn

Written By Coleen Graybill and Tina Kleckner

Step into history at Abiquiu Inn on October 25th and 26th, 2024, for Curtis & Cuisine, a two-day event honoring the legacy of Edward S. Curtis, the renowned photographer of Native American peoples. In collaboration with the Curtis Legacy Foundation, this immersive weekend will feature captivating stories, rare photographs, and unforgettable culinary delights.

The event opens with a reception on Friday, October 25th, from 4-6 PM, where guests will have the opportunity to meet John Edward Graybill, Curtis’ great-grandson, alongside Teri Fraizer (Laguna) and Shawnee Real Bird (Apsáalooke), descendants of the Native Americans Curtis photographed. The weekend will also include an exhibit of unpublished Curtis photographs, offering a rare glimpse into previously unseen images from his Alaska, Plains, and Southwest series. For the first time, these photographs will be available for sale, with proceeds supporting the publication of Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Southwest.

A culinary highlight of this event will be the authentic Native American cuisine prepared by award-winning Navajo Chef Freddie Bitsoie, whose specially crafted menu perfectly complements the cultural experience. Friday’s reception will feature Native-inspired appetizers, and both days will offer exquisite dinner options in addition to lunch option on Saturday, with cultural exploration and exceptional dining, reservations are highly recommended.

Saturday, October 26th, brings even more insight into Curtis’ life and legacy with Special Presentations by the Curtis Legacy Foundation: Gain insights into Edward Curtis' life and the enduring impact of his photography.

• 10:00 AM: "Edward Curtis - The Man/The Legacy" Did you know that Curtis’ daughter smashed his original negatives? Come hear the story! Presentation by John Graybill/Curtis’ great-grandson and Tim Greyhavens/Curtis Historical Expert

• 1:30 PM: "Carrying the Legacy Forward" with special guests Teri Fraizer (Laguna) and Shawnee Real Bird (Apsáalooke), contemporary descendants of people that Curtis photographed over 100 years ago. Be transported to a different time and place as these storytellers bring their culture to life in different ways through art. Presentation led by John and Coleen Graybill/Project Manager for CLF.
• Book Signing: 11:30 AM and 3 PM - After over three decades without new Curtis scholarship, meet the authors who have unearthed unpublished materials and penned the first fresh look at his life and work.

”We’re honored to host Curtis and Cuisine and welcome Chef Freddie Bitsoie to Abiquiu Inn,” says Colin Noble, owner of Abiquiu Inn. “This partnership with the Curtis Legacy Foundation is a perfect way to celebrate Indigenous culture through both art and cuisine. We invite the community to join us for this unforgettable experience.”

Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in Edward S. Curtis' world.     With book signings, exclusive presentations, and a chance to purchase rare Curtis prints, Curtis & Cuisine is a must-attend event for lovers of history, culture, and exceptional food by Award Winning Navajo Chef Freddie Bitsoie. Join us at Abiquiu Inn, a beautiful gem nestled in the heart of New Mexico, for an unforgettable celebration of Indigenous heritage and Edward S. Curtis’ enduring legacy.
​
For more information or dining reservations,  call Abiquiu Inn 505-685-4378