“When I reclaim history paintings from this tradition of European painting, in many ways I’m sending a clear message about how valuable all our histories are.” – Kent Monkman

Saving the Newcomers portrays an imagined first meeting between Indigenous people and European settlers to Turtle Island, now known as America. Kent Monkman borrows poses and specific elements from older paintings to create his own history painting that offers an alternate perspective on historic events. A recurring character in these works is Monkman’s shapeshifting, time traveling, two-spirit alter ego, Miss Chief Eagle Testickle—pictured in the center in high heels—who bears witness to the new arrivals and extends a hand in aid.