HIGHLIGHTS in Paint

Hillary Kempenich combines influences in her mixed media paintings to bring about awareness and health in her community

Artist Hillary Kempenich—of Ojibwe, Cree, Assiniboine, Dakota and French-Canadian decent—comes from a strong background of artists, and was mentored by the late Presley LaFountain (Ojibwe). “Growing up with an abundance of creativity deeply rooted in my family and in my Turtle Mountain community, I intertwine many elements into my work as you see it today,” says Kempenich.

She Rises with the Moon, acrylic on canvas, 60 x 48"

Besides the influence of her Indigenous heritage, personal experiences and shared stories, Kempenich’s deep connections to the natural world are also important factors to her work. “As an artist, I am a first responder to the crises happening throughout the world,” the artist says. “One of my most radical beliefs is happiness and what that embodies. Happiness for me is not an individual task nor an individual journey, as we draw from the energies amongst us, from the air we breathe, the people we love and the rich earth beneath our feet.”

A self-proclaimed “modern-day storyteller,” Kempenich finds that by working with various mediums, a continual message is to “break the romanticism and antiquated ideas of Indigenous people while collectively visiting the conversation of empowerment as individuals.” She adds, “I am committed to reclaiming our stories, voices and rightful place.”

Kempenich is currently working on a collection that is inspired by self-discovery and what might impact an Indigenous woman in today’s world. “My true sense of self is to care for others, utilizing my work and my experiences to amplify the voices of those who are unheard.”

Find Kempenich’s works in the show Ganawenindizo at the Phipps Center for the Arts through June 23; along with the traveling show GROUNDED featured at the American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center from June 15 through August 11.

See More www.hillarykempenich.com

Artist Spotlights: Dive deeper into the genre with these established artists

Dylan Cavin (Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma)
www.theartofdylancavin.com

The focus of Dylan Cavin’s work centers on internal narratives concerning “this land” within Indian territory, exploring its contemporary significance. “Through my work, I delve into the nuanced interplay of identity and belonging, shedding light on how these themes intersect with Indigenous perspectives,” says the artist. “By capturing these intimate narratives, I aim to provoke reflection on our relationship with the land today, prompting a deeper understanding of its cultural and historical importance. Ultimately, my goal is to foster dialogue and appreciation for Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, honoring the rich tapestry of stories that shape our collective connection to the land.” Recent achievements for Cavin include participation in shows like the Trail of Tears Art Show (1st place Graphics), Cherokee Art Market (2nd place Graphics), Choctaw Nation Art Show (Best of Show Award) and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum’s Small Works, Great Wonders Art Show, to name a few. In addition, Cavin had art acquired for Ralph Lauren’s retail store in Aspen.

Garrett Etsitty (Diné [Navajo])
www.garrettetsitty.com

Garrett Etsitty, a member of the Diné tribe, was born and raised in Chinle, Arizona. Growing up, he developed a passion for painting and a deep appreciation for his culture. His art draws inspiration from the petroglyphs found on the canyon walls and the stories passed down from his elders. “I employ a complex union of vivid colors and layers to articulate an Indigenous understanding of thought, creation and ideology that transcends time and space,” Etsitty explains. “My current work reflects the worldview that has been handed down by the elders of my tribe and expresses a sense of oneness with creation, connecting the creation story of my people to the present day.” Etsitty also collaborates with various tribes to enhance their behavioral health through art therapy, and has been involved in various interdisciplinary socially engaged projects both collaboratively and individually for more than a decade. For 2024, Etsitty will be involved with the Phoenix Indian Center’s 40th Annual Silver and Turquoise Ball as the auction co-chair, among other achievements.

Randy Kemp (Mvskoke/Choctaw/Euchee)
www.indigenousartmachine.com

“My work includes both traditional tribal life and contemporary works concerning Indigenous issues, themes and views,” says multidisciplinary artist, Randy Kemp. He amuses that his art career really began on the walls of his childhood home in the Bell Gardens community of East Los Angeles, California. “My older brother would draw landscape imagery on the back patio walls and I would try to enhance his drawings with shading and texture...It was like a home art school, but without the tuition,” he says. Kemps works include found objects, painting, printmaking, short films, storytelling and he’s even an award nominated Native American flute musician. His artwork has been exhibited in prominent museums, galleries and private collections throughout the world. Find Kemps work at the Cherokee Art Market and Santa Fe Indian Market, as well as on his website.