Lauren Kelly

Lauren Kelly (b. 1994, Citizen Potawatomi) is an artist based in Oklahoma. Specializing in acrylic painting, Kelly is best known for her distinctive style characterized by busy, asymmetrical deviations on traditional Potawatomi and woodland designs and dreamy, semi-surreal figures. Her work explores themes of women and feminine figures, body autonomy, the interior of the human psyche, and ancestral connection.

Nshekéwbe

Medium: Acrylic on Canvas

24" x 36"

$2400

Exploring social and emotional isolation in the Seventh Fire generation's spiritual and cultural return home, this piece depicts a woman wrapped in a blanket and standing at some distance from a wigwam. Through surreal snow or dust, the red clay soil (a reference to Oklahoma) is barely visible as a horizon line. "Nshekéwbe" means to be home alone. Although in the arms of community we are never alone, those of us who are returning to cultural practices and language after generations of loss or who live at a distance from our cultural hubs often grapple with self-doubt and aloneness. Ultimately, what keeps us going is the hope that every little bit of reclamation will count for those who will come after us.

Pickup at Red Earth Art Gallery, 100 N Broadway, Oklahoma City, OK 73102.
Interested in having this item shipped? We can arrange packing and shipping for an additional cost. Please call 405-427-5228 or email info@redearth.org before purchase.