My relationship with the land and my community is the foundation from which my art grows. As an Oglala Lakota woman from the Pine Ridge Reservation, I draw strength from my Lakota culture and the teachings of the incredible women who raised me—my Ina (mother), Unci (grandmother), and Inala (auntie/mother). Their lessons in patience, creativity, determination, and Lakota feminism shaped who I am: a mother, an interdisciplinary artist, and a culture bearer of stories that braid together self,  tradition, and modernity.

I began designing and creating beadwork at five years old, guided by the hands and hearts of my family.  My work intertwines historic Lakota geometric designs with contemporary forms, inspired by the cultural influences my Inala shared with me, including artists like Andy Warhol, Gustav Klimt, and Frida Kahlo, as well as the rebellious spirit of rock music. My practice blends traditional Lakota art forms such as beadwork, quillwork, and doll making with modern interpretations, preserving these cultural techniques while pushing the boundaries of what they can express.

These approaches to creating my artwork blend cultural heritage with contemporary expression, reflecting both the beauty and the complexity of Lakota traditions and modern sensibilities. Whatever form I am creating, my artwork is intended to inspire joy, connection, and a deep appreciation for the land and community. It is grounded in the belief that art has the power to bridge gaps—whether between cultures, histories, or individuals—and to foster a shared sense of belonging.

At the heart of my practice is a desire to create work that celebrates resilience, creativity, and joy while honoring the women who guided me. I hope that as you engage with my art, you feel connected not only to the work itself but to the broader communities and landscapes from which it emerges.

Artist Statement