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.
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 buffalo or American bison guardian spirit gave a woman she can cross different areas and functions.
One of my Chaleco Protectors. Each Protective Vest is a unique refuge depicting balance in the midst of pollution, conflict, disorder and darkness. I created Creer (Believe) to give the wearer confidence to believe in themselves.
One of my Chaleco Protectors. Each Protective Vest is a unique refuge depicting mythical heroines and others finding balance in the midst of pollution, conflict, disorder and darkness. Esperanza empowers the wearer with hope. The wearer regains control of their future, and can now cope with the chaos of the world.
Attached to this traditional weaving is an applique showing a jovial Calavera, a decorated Día de Muertos skull. She is surrounded by an infinity of colorful flowers that demarcate the threshold between life and death. She is free to move between these worlds as easily as the birds whose feathers adorn her. The feathers are gathered from birds flying around Portland.
