#tsalagi

More pieces from the Vinita Cultural Center from last year's basketry exhibit

some earrings and a popsocket! ive been out of it for awhile but im finally getting stuff made for the summer powwow season

The dark brown color is probably from walnut hulls and the orange from bloodroot, both dyes common to Cherokee makers. The pattern woven into the basket is the Chief's Heart pattern. The drop handles are made from wood separate from the basket. The handle attachments are woven into the basket before the rim is attached.

This self portrait was the result of my wanting to do a piece on the phrase 'i have a little Cherokee in me,' as both a critique of blood quantum and of the type of people who say those types of things. These people aren't interested in actually connecting with Cherokee community, learning our history or language or art, they just want a fun fact to share to make them look more interesting. I've been reconnecting for a couple years now, working to learn as much as I can of our language and culture, and connect as much as possible to community, which is what it means to be actually Cherokee.

chukvsh kobafa 💔

It’s been a while since I’ve made any personal artwork.