. >> reporter: jeffrey gibson is the first indigenous artist to be chosen to represent the united statesout 80 countries have been selected. many displaying work in specially-built national pavilions. it's a contemporary art exhibition which often reflects current events. ukraine showed civilians' videos of russia's invasion, and israel's team notes they'll only open when a cease-fire and hostage release agreement is reached. >> these, they command respect, and i wanted you to walk in and have to immediately look up. >> reporter: jeffrey gibson is making his own cultural commentary. >> i don't make work to please people, but i do make work to communicate with people. >> reporter: here pulling from text from a 1902 letter of reprimand to a superintendent aout indigenous students growing out their hair. for some, a sign of identity and strength. >> the returned male student far too frequently goes back to the reservation and falls into the old custom of letting his hair grow long. >> reporter: we first met the artist at a studio in december. he and his team work from a converted schoolhous