Dugan Aguilar: Born of the Bear Dance

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Published by Radius Books, with Oakland Museum of California.

Dugan Aguilar’s work, spanning from 1982 to 2018, defies colonial narratives and captures instead an unwavering Indigenous presence and dynamic cultural practices. His powerful images document a rich array of Indigenous experiences, from breathtaking California landscapes to gatherings, ceremonies, and the artistry of basket weaving. Drawing from Aguilar’s extensive photographic archive, Born of the Bear Dance honors and showcases moments of profound cultural significance that define contemporary Native life.

Created in conjunction with the Oakland Museum of California's Born of the Bear Dance exhibition, and reflecting the Museum's ongoing stewardship of Aguilar's archive entrusted by his family in 2021, the publication represents a major milestone in this collaborative work. More than simple documents, Aguilar's photographs radiate a sense of quiet but determined celebration and resistance. His photography captures an insider's perspective of California's Indigenous communities, sparking a dialogue about cultural continuity, the challenges Indigenous communities face, and the spiritual connections that remain strong despite centuries of change. The book celebrates his legacy and role in shaping how Indigenous experiences are understood.

Publication Information:

Dugan Aguilar: Born of the Bear Dance

Published by Radius Books in collaboration with the Oakland Museum of California

Publication Date: August 11, 2026

ISBN: 979-8-89018-154-1