500 Miles

Artist Statement: Rather than celebrating the wonders of the Western World, the impact of European settlers has taken more than just the Natives of Alaska’s land. They took lives, children, and all sense of identity. For nearly a hundred years the Native Americans of our state have been working relentlessly to regain the culture they once lost.

My main subject is a Native Alaskan woman, looking into the sunrise. Looking forward to the new day represents the bright futures of the current generation of Native Alaskans, fitting right between cultural identity and the voices of today. Long, flowing hair in Indigenous communities is the ultimate expression of heritage, The Creator, honor, and a physical extension of the spirit — as shown in the women right behind her, all of whom have the ability to give life. The backpack is a symbol of education many communities throughout Alaska have the privilege of carrying without the shadow of abuse trailing behind them.

The women represent Sedna, Mother Sea, an old woman, also recognized to be an important spiritual leader in Native American tribes, and a little girl, a symbol of growing up to be something greater. The title 500 miles represents the train ride home to her roots.