The art in the Red Cloud Indian School Heritage Center, an array of mediums and styles, speaks to viewers - sometimes in surprising ways.

"The art, in a subtle way, breaks a few stereotypes," director Peter Strong said.

In changing some people's views about Native Americans, the art also bolsters the spirits of the native children who attend the school.

"One fifth-grader walked in and said, 'Whoa,' in amazement of this kind of beauty," Strong said.

Red Cloud Indian School is hosting its 41st annual art show, adding to its display more than 160 pieces of art from nearly 60 Native American artists. Participants from all over the country enter their works of art, hoping the show will be a springboard to something bigger.

"Our show provides a way for our artists to get exposure," said Strong.

All entries are admitted, judged and some are awarded. This year, more than $7,000 in cash prizes was awarded to more than 20 pieces, he said.

"It continues to be one of the best Indian art shows in the country and definitely in the Northern Plains. The reaction of the visitors is that the artists have stepped it up a notch," he said.

Rising gas prices have not been a deterrent; visitor numbers have gone up slightly. The center receives about 10,000 visitors each year, said Strong.

"We're all working together to provide an all-around experience to our tourists. Our reputation is expanding with the art show as one of the places in South Dakota and Black Hills to see quality artwork," Strong said.

The art ranges from traditional to modern to historical, with many artists working in multiple mediums. The art is for sale within the gallery, but most of the pieces remain at Red Cloud.

The gallery is currently cataloguing the art pieces that stay; so far, the gallery holds about 2,200 paintings and 5,000 to 10,000 three-dimensional pieces.

The gallery offers free art show tours and is open through Aug. 10, a running length of 10 weeks. The national competition has been going on since 1968.

If you go

What: 41st annual Red Cloud Indian School Art Show

Where: School Heritage Center, 100 Mission Dr., Pine Ridge. School is 103 miles southeast of Rapid City. Take SD Highway 79 to Hot Springs, then US 18-385 to Oelrichs. Turn on Highway 18 to Oglala, then follow Grass Creek Road.

When: Show is open through Aug. 10. Center is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

Cost: Admission is free (donations to support the center are welcome). Free tours of show provided.

More: Call (605) 867-5491, e-mail heritagecenter@redcloudschool.org or see www.redcloudschool.org