Located in the beautiful brick-red terrain of the Canyon of Big Horn, near Montana, USA, the Crow Tribe are determined to assert and retain their sense of identity. They have their own dialect, and call themselves Apsalocke, meaning child of a large-beaked bird or raven.
An interesting focal point of the exhibition is a series of images showing how to assemble a traditional Teepee, the accommodation of many tribe members. The cover is placed over four large poles, which form the foundation of the structure. Lace pins are put in place, and then lastly, the cover is adjusted.
 |  | Photography; c. Alberto Arzoz |
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Contrary to popular belief, instead of being decorated with vibrant colours, most Teepees are white, which represents purity.
The Crow Indians are extremely spiritual as a people. One photograph depicts tribe members entering a Sweat Box, a Teepee heated with stones and blankets, to cleanse the body and soul.
Another image demonstrates the ‘Slaughter of the Sacred Buffalo’ ceremony. The Crow believe that the buffalo acts as an intermediary of the ‘Great Spirit’. They interact and communicate with the spirit through the slain animal.
Despite the Crow Indians’ attempts to preserve their unique heritage, a shadow hangs over them in the shape of American corporate giants.
It seems ironic that most tribe members earn a living working at casinos, and even more so that Coca Cola is the sponsor of all Native American events across the USA.
Photography; c. Alberto Arzoz | |  |
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A photograph depicting a petrol station within the reservation continues this theme. The juxtaposition of a Teepee against an Exxon sign highlights the contrasting yet co-existing cultures within America’s vast expanse.
The modest surroundings in which the Crow Indians inhabit show the challenges they have to undergo to protect their sacred and historic customs, and yet far from resenting their situation, they instead celebrate it.
“The Crow people are extremely resourceful and intelligent people whose only dream is of being able to get control of their future,” said Arzoz, a Basque photojournalist living in London.
“Western civilization would greatly benefit from assimilating some of the values that the Crow still live by, such as their sacred bond with the Earth and the Elements,” he added.
