Sir Norman Rosenthal Highlights Ledger Drawing by Nah Hi Yurs

We are honoured to announce that Sir Norman Rosenthal has selected a Ledger Drawing attributed to the Southern Cheyenne warrior artist Nah Hi Yurs (Carl Matches, d. 1914) for Frieze Viewing Room’s specially curated section Forever. This new section will explore the premise that great art is forever, showcasing works that have stood - and in the curator’s mind will stand - the test of time. 

Nah Hi Yurs was a young Southern Cheyenne warrior incarcerated for three years without trial at Fort Marion, in St. Augustine, Florida. Encouraged to draw with paper and coloured pencils provided by his captors, his work is known for its almost photographic qualities. With astute attention to details of costume and personal adornment, Nah Hi Yurs captures ceremonial accoutrement, dance, and warriors engaged in hunting and commerce. While his visual language is rooted in a long history of narrative painting on the Great Plains, the use of newly introduced media renders them distinctly modern at the same time.