Gene Locklear — Lumbee artist, former Major League Baseball player and Pembroke native — is the inaugural Lloyd Oxendine Artist-in-Residence. His vibrant and emotional works span realism to abstract, capturing Native life, heritage and the evolving spirit of the Lumbee people. From striking portraits of Henry Berry Lowrie to sweeping tobacco field landscapes, Locklear’s art is a tribute to identity, resilience and storytelling through color and form.
The Museum of the Southeast American Indian
Centering Indigenous Heritage
Explore the Museum of the Southeast American Indian to connect with the rich history
and culture of Indigenous communities. Learn about the artistry, resilience and innovation
of Southeastern Native peoples.
20+
Programs and events each year celebrate Indigenous storytelling, tradition and education
46 Years
Since 1979, the Museum has served as a vital center for sharing Indigenous culture across the region.
9|9 Native South Art Show
Call for Submissions!
Submissions open August 11 - August 22
We’re thrilled to announce the return of the 9|9 Native South Art Show, a juried exhibition celebrating contemporary Native artistry across the Southeast.
For submission guidelines, visit the Exhibits page.
9|9 Native South Art Show Reception
Save the Date!
This year’s exhibit opens with a reception on Tuesday, September 9 at 6:30 p.m., and we can’t wait to showcase the incredible talent within our Native communities.
Prize winners will be announced during the opening celebration.
Featured Exhibition
Gene Locklear: From the Pitcher's Mound to the Easel
On Display from March 18 - August 22, 2025
Book from the Nook
Gather around each month as Indigenous readers share children’s stories written by
Native authors. Held every third Tuesday, Book from the Nook celebrates culture, literacy
and connection for young learners.
Watch on YouTube
Learn Through Exploration
Explore the Discovery Center
Curious minds are welcome at the Discovery Center. Take part in group tours, explore interactive displays and learn how Indigenous communities have lived and thrived. Programs for all ages shine a light on art, agriculture, stories and cultural resilience.
Explore More Ways to Learn
Discover immersive experiences and stories that bring Indigenous culture to life.
Experience Life by the River
Step into the daily life of Southeastern tribes through Life by the River. This hands-on
exploration brings to life traditional living, farming and community along the Lumbee
River.
Cultural Contiuum
This exhibit showcases a diverse collection of items rooted in the traditions of Indigenous
tribes in North Carolina. Each piece—crafted from natural materials like clay, pine
needles, wood, stone, and metal—reflects generations of traditional ecological knowledge.
Visit us to explore Indigenous knowledge, identity, and art firsthand.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you're booking a group tour, donating to support Indigenous education or looking
to connect, we’re here to help.
Visit in Person
Stop by anytime or schedule a tour. Admission is always free. Group tours are available
for schools, summer camps and families. Learn more about Southeastern Native culture
in our exhibits.
Give to the Museum
Your support helps fund educational programming and cultural preservation. Click the
link, select Museum of the Southeast American Indian from the drop down menu and donate
today to help us inspire future generations.
Contact Us
For more information about educational programs or to schedule a group experience,
contact the museum at nativemuseum@uncp.edu or call 910.521.6282.
Upcoming Events
Stay informed on events at the museum that celebrate the heritage, art and culture
of Southeastern Native peoples.
Meet our Staff
Nancy Chavis
Director/Curator of Museum of the Southeast American Indian
nancy.fields@uncp.edu910.521.6231
