Nshekéwbe

Lauren Kelly 
Citizen Potawatomi

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.

Available in two sizes 

5" x 7" print

9" x 12" print