In this edition of Weekend Picks, read about Andrea Swensson’s new book, “Deeper Blues: The Life, Songs, and Salvation of Cornbread Harris,” and a new exhibition featuring artist J. White (Arikara) at All My Relations Gallery. Choose a puppetry performance to see from the various Minneapolis Puppetry Palate: A Taste of Puppetry offerings, and read about IndiaFest as well as Thomasina Petrus performing Billie Holiday with Artistry Theater.

J. White: Arikara Proper

One of the first things I noticed when I visited All My Relations Gallery to see J. White’s exhibition, “Arikara Proper” was the number three. A number of the self-taught painter’s works feature these rather imposing groups of figures in groups of three. White’s “Sisters” series paintings feature creatures with little facial features, and they all have turquoise circles placed where one of the eyes would be. In one of the paintings, their skull-like faces almost float above their shoulders, topped by billowing shapes akin to hair. In another painting, the figures look out at the viewer as if from the moon. Call them witches, call them weird; there’s an enigmatic power to them.

White’s exhibition also has portraits and works with two figures, and larger groups of figures. With a palette of vivid colors , White uses an expressive style, drawing on symbolism and motifs from Native culture and urban aesthetics. It’s compelling stuff, with a dose of cool and a mix of emotion and cultural connection.

J. White: Arikara Proper runs through October 5 at All My Relations. (free) More information here.