Artist Statement
I employ multiple mediums to create works that consider themes of visibility and resilience to empower in the presence of historical trauma, oppression and erasure. By prominently featuring women in my mixed media works, I aim to increase their visibility, especially in light of the historical significance of Indigenous matriarchy. My work is layered with images bold, distinct, concealed and subtle. I often include recurring circular motifs that symbolize the moon, the feminine and the medicine wheel. I utilize graphite, paint with acrylic ink, and incorporate collage, sculpture and installation.
I have a mixed cultural heritage: my mother is Spanish, French, Pueblo and Comanche; my father and his parents were Dineh (Navajo). My grandparents experienced residential school and relocation and were subsequently raised in an urban, assimilated American family. I became intrigued to learn about my Indigenous lineage and have engaged in a range of research--from books, podcasts, news stories, and speaking with family and friends--to learn and explore my Indigenous heritage.
Ever inspired to create provocative works of art to share with an audience, I continue to hope that my work brings others face to face with forgotten or hidden issues, provokes dialogue, deepens empathy and a sense of our shared human experience. Lastly, given the serious nature of these themes, I also use humor as a means to incite collective healing.
I employ multiple mediums to create works that consider themes of visibility and resilience to empower in the presence of historical trauma, oppression and erasure. By prominently featuring women in my mixed media works, I aim to increase their visibility, especially in light of the historical significance of Indigenous matriarchy. My work is layered with images bold, distinct, concealed and subtle. I often include recurring circular motifs that symbolize the moon, the feminine and the medicine wheel. I utilize graphite, paint with acrylic ink, and incorporate collage, sculpture and installation.
I have a mixed cultural heritage: my mother is Spanish, French, Pueblo and Comanche; my father and his parents were Dineh (Navajo). My grandparents experienced residential school and relocation and were subsequently raised in an urban, assimilated American family. I became intrigued to learn about my Indigenous lineage and have engaged in a range of research--from books, podcasts, news stories, and speaking with family and friends--to learn and explore my Indigenous heritage.
Ever inspired to create provocative works of art to share with an audience, I continue to hope that my work brings others face to face with forgotten or hidden issues, provokes dialogue, deepens empathy and a sense of our shared human experience. Lastly, given the serious nature of these themes, I also use humor as a means to incite collective healing.