A new art exhibit at the High Desert Museum in Bend, Oregon, titled \"Sensing Sasquatch,\" is challenging visitors to rethink the legendary creature known as Bigfoot. The exhibit, curated by Phil Khashkash, an artist and linguistics anthropology scholar, aims to illuminate the deep connections between Sasquatch and Indigenous cultures across North America.

The exhibit features a variety of artworks and multisensory experiences that highlight Sasquatch's significance as a revered being among Native communities. Khashkash emphasizes that Sasquatch, derived from the Coast Salish First Nations language, is known by many names across different Indigenous cultures, with a dataset of 16 names compiled from various Northwest communities.

Among the featured artists is Charlene Moody, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, whose mixed media installation includes a life-size Sasquatch wrapped in buffalo hides. Moody's work reflects her personal experiences and the stories passed down through her family, emphasizing the respect and reverence with which Sasquatch is regarded in her culture.

Museum executive director Dana Whitelaw noted that the exhibition's vision evolved through discussions with Indigenous advisors, leading to a deeper understanding of Sasquatch's cultural significance. The exhibit encourages visitors to leave their preconceptions at the door and engage with the art in a way that fosters curiosity and expands their perspectives.

\"Sensing Sasquatch\" will be on display until January 12, 2025, and aims to create a space for dialogue and reflection on the mysteries surrounding this iconic figure in folklore. The museum plans to further engage with tribal youth, ensuring that the exhibit resonates with future generations.