Work inspired by artist’s identity as young Cree woman

Work inspired by artist’s identity as young Cree woman

April 19, 2016. Cheyenne LeGrande’s twigs and beads piece, “Namatakiw,” is among the work featured as part of the 2016 Fine Art Graduates' Exhibition from the Fine Art Program at MacEwan University in Edmonton. The theme of 2016 is Artline and represents the connection between the students' work on display, their learning and the overall communicative nature of art itself. Writes LeGrande of her work, “’Namatakiw’ in my Cree Language means missing. This piece is inspired by my identity as a young Cree woman. As an Indigenous artist I am influenced by my culture, specifically the spirituality and unique perspective of our peoples. I have a deep care for our people and mother earth. The red beads represent my culture as they are used for traditional garments. I took a minimal approach to this piece by using a single twig covered in red beads. The red beads poured on the ground and the dramatic lighting allowed me to evoke a visceral feeling. As a female Cree artist I am very influenced by the Indigenous way of being and knowing.” The exhibition, which began on Saturday and takes place the Centre for Arts and Communications, Studio 109/106 at MacEwan University, wraps up Wednesday. (Photo: courtesy of MacEwan University)