Davenport, IA — Now on view at the Figge Art Museum through June 8, Cara and Diego Romero: Tales of Futures Past is a bold and visually stunning exhibition exploring Indigenous identity, resilience, and imagination through the eyes of two celebrated contemporary artists. Don’t miss the only opportunity to see this nationally touring show in Iowa before it travels to the Crocker Art Museum (Sacramento, CA), the Albuquerque Museum (Albuquerque, NM), and additional venues through summer 2026.
This groundbreaking exhibition features 39 works by Cara Romero (Chemehuevi) and Diego Romero (Cochiti Pueblo), marking the first time their art has been shown together in a nationally traveling show. The exhibit includes 18 of Diego Romero’s dynamic pottery and lithographs alongside 20 of Cara Romero’s powerful photographic works—highlighted by pieces from her acclaimed Indigenous Futurism series.
Reflecting on the exhibit, Tales of Futures Past:
“We are very excited (and moved) to have our first two-person show together that illuminates ways in which our works are in conversation with each other and how our artists’ lives intertwine. We deeply enjoy creating in this life together and center our existence in art and work to support each other’s endeavors. It will be so touching to see the works travel together.”
Through vivid imagery, personal perspective, and elements of pop culture, Tales of Futures Past examines the evolving nature of Indigenous identity, grappling with themes of colonialism, ancestral legacy, environmental justice, and cultural resilience. Thematically organized, the exhibition invites viewers to reimagine historical narratives, explore shared mythologies, and consider what Indigenous futures can look like.
Arla Lucia, 2020
Archival pigment print
Courtesy of the artist, © Cara Romero
“This exhibition is a reminder of the power of art to reshape perceptions and worldviews,” said Vanessa Sage, Co-Senior Curator at the Figge Art Museum. “Cara and Diego Romero encourage us to move past surface stereotypes and engage with the complexity of Indigenous identity while embracing our shared humanity.”
“We are profoundly grateful to bring Tales of Futures Past to life,” added Melissa Mohr, Executive Director and CEO of the Figge. “This exhibition reveals both the artistry and the shared values that Cara and Diego have for Indigenous representation.”
Experience it while you can—Tales of Futures Past is only at the Figge Art Museum through June 8. This is your chance to see the works of two groundbreaking artists before the exhibition embarks on its national tour. Plan your visit today at figgeartmuseum.org and be part of a powerful conversation at the intersection of culture, history, and future vision.
Women in the Anthropocene, circa 2015
Earthenware with slip, 6 1/2 x 13 7/8 x 14 1/8 inches
Collection of Carl & Marilynn Thoma, 2015.78, © Diego Romero
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