Some Pacific Northwest Native American women identify three primary stages in life: birth, finding a guardian spirit, and death. The tradition of finding one’s spirit is a rite that forms a common bond within the community, while simultaneously defining an individual’s personal identity. This woman with a turtle guardian spirit carries a little home with her wherever she goes. Understanding the primal need for shelter is important as we grapple with an expanding houseless crisis in our cities.
Sold at Portland Open Studios on October 12, 2025
