Totem for Kunu (First Son)

Truman Lowe, Totem for Kunu (First Son), 1985, pine and peeled willow, 114 × 15 × 15 in. (289.6 × 38.1 × 38.1 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Museum purchase made through the Luisita L. and Franz H. Denghausen Endowment, 2022.9.2, © 2021, Truman Lowe Estate

Artwork Details

Title: Totem for Kunu (First Son)
Artist: Truman Lowe
Date: 1985
Location: Smithsonian American Art Museum
/
3rd Floor
/
East Wing
Dimensions: 114 × 15 × 15 in. (289.6 × 38.1 × 38.1 cm)
Copyright: © 2021, Truman Lowe Estate
Credit Line: Museum purchase made through the Luisita L. and Franz H. Denghausen Endowment
Mediums: pine
willow
Mediums Description: pine and peeled willow
Classifications: Sculpture
Subjects: Abstract
Object Number: 2022.9.2
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/2022.9.2

Artwork Description

These two sculptures share similar forms, materials, and traits, yet each one is distinct, just like the siblings they represent. Truman Lowe made these works with his two children in mind. But instead of titling them with their personal names, he used Ho-Chunk words that signify "firstborn son" (Kenu) and "firstborn daughter" (Henu). The bent willow branches recall the materials and techniques of basket weaving that Lowe learned from his parents, bringing another generation into this abstract family portrait.