Buffalo Bill Center of the West Mourns the Death of Photographer and Storyteller Ken Blackbird

In remembrance of Ken’s legacy, the Plains Indian Museum staff collaborated with the McCracken Research Library to honor him through a special installation of his photographs. Taken from his donated collection, four photographs hang at the entrances to the upper galleries of the Plains Indian Museum, while an additional four framed works are on view in the “Native Arts Today” Gallery on the lower level. Several of Ken’s images are also included in the “Spur of the Moment” photographic exhibition, on exhibit through March 2026.

The Center of the West recently shared a tribute to Ken on its official Facebook page, reflecting on his enduring impact as an artist, mentor, and friend. The post can be viewed at: https://www.facebook.com/centerofthewest/posts/pfbid0MdKxroNqpfbSQLD2gTXCCsKZUBZ4hVwGNuqujaP1XZvvvby8bi51rRGMcFRvZhfkl

Hunter Old Elk, Interim Curator of the Plains Indian Museum, reflected on Ken’s influence both professionally and personally:

“Ken was a trusted mentor and collaborator since I came to Cody almost ten years ago. He had a talent for narration, showering his audience with big laughs and putting his whole body into his storytelling as he detailed his experiences traveling across the United States and internationally. My most memorable lessons were the ones that included his work with elders. Ken spoke often of his grandparents, who raised him, and reminded me how important it was to have an elder’s permission to work in a community. He never shied away from sharing a meal, sitting at a community event, or getting down and dirty in nature. Ken will be deeply missed by all who knew him, learned from him, and were touched by his life’s work.”

The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is deeply grateful for Ken Blackbird’s generosity, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to truthful storytelling. His photographs remain a living archive of community, culture, and human connection, and his presence will continue to be felt in the galleries, the library, and the many lives he shaped.