What is an overarching goal of your artistic practice thus far?
My artistic practice has been a way for me to process the layered experiences of my identity. I combine beadwork and oil painting, two traditionally contrasting materials, to create a language that interprets my inner world. My work references Haudenosaunee visual and material culture and adds my voice to its continuance. The work I create becomes a reflection of the stories carried in the body and reclaims the stories held within the beadwork I’m referencing.
Which mentor figure(s) made the greatest impact on you?
Using materials as a form of language has always been a part of my life and story. Growing up, I watched my Dad paint and it has always been through conversations with him about painting and material culture that has deepened my understanding of who I am. He has always encouraged me to become an artist. During my MFA I am grateful to have met and worked with my professors Bea Parsons and Hannah Claus, both of whom have helped me shape my work and have also connected me with many people and opportunities as I adjusted to living in a new city.
If you could tell your younger self something, what would it be?
I would tell my younger artist self to experiment with many ways of working, and to follow all of the things that I’m drawn to and bring many influences and experiences into the work. It takes time to recognize the consistencies that come up across your work and to realise that this is your artistic voice coming through, this is how you tell your story. I would also say that it’s okay to take your time becoming who you’re meant to be.
