The University of Pennsylvania Museum is delighted to have this special issue of Expedition appear in conjunction with the opening of the new permanent exhibition, “Living in Balance: The Universe of the Hopi, Zuni, Navajo, and Apache,” in the refurbished Ruth and Earl Scott Gallery of the American Southwest. Dr. Dorothy Washburn, Guest Curator of “Living in Balance,” the consulting scholars, and the whole staff of the Museum deserve congratulations for mounting a very innovative and informative exhibition. “Living in Balance” attempts to present the world of the Southwest from the points-of-view of Native Americans who live in the region. It provides numerous insights into native perspectives on the environment and how native ideology and ritual impact a broad spectrum of material culture.
“Living in Balance” is an exhibition that is rich in information, and one that can be returned to again and again. I urge our members and visitors to join us in the many special events and activities in the coining months that will highlight different aspects of the American Southwest, both past and present. The enjoyment and educational value of “Living in Balance” can be further enhanced by the excellent, well-illustrated catalog that accompanies the exhibition. The Museum is quite proud of the exhibition, the catalog, and this special issue of Expedition. I hope that our members and visitors will share in our excitement over these contributions to understanding the cultures of the Hopi, Zuni, Navajo, and Apache.