THIS IS NATIVE LAND is an extension of the medallion, LAND BACK. This piece acknowledges that we are all residing within the traditional territory of Indigenous peoples whose nations have existed on this land since time immemorial.
The beading skills and essential materials knowledge that have become part of my artistic practice were transferred to me over time thanks to the generosity of various skilled community members. This original composition is constructed using a combination of vintage and contemporary beads that have been embroidered onto Merino wool felt, then backed with commercially tanned deer hide using a beaded stitching technique, and then adorned with a peyote stitch lanyard.
A design feature of this medallion are roots and floral springing from the lettering. The roots reach down beyond the bottom of the composition and florals extend out from the letters. These elements symbolize the enduring connection to land, resilience and continued survivance of First People on Turtle Island.