Tëwènama (Family) (7 of 12) Artwork - Limited Edition of 12

Statement: What is an oral tradition? My definition of an oral tradition is this; a historical recount of an event spoken in a present voice. The work I create often hinges on this concept of places and exchanges. As an indigenous artist (Delaware Tribe of Indians) I have sought to incorporate the concept of oral history in my own visual way. I am humbled by my ancestors and the risks they took in hopes of creating a better future for the next. To honor both my Indigenous and European ancestry I often incorporate aesthetic stylizations of both in my work. Ultimately, I desire to create work that allows for both me and the viewer to participate in open discussions that allows for great understanding and satisfaction. Bio: From 2000 to 2010 I served in the United States Navy. I left with high hopes of becoming a photojournalist, however after failing broadcasting I was sent out to the fleet as an undesignated sailor. One of the lowest points in my life, through the hardship I sought photography as my method of escape during off hours. As my military career progressed, I found myself leading a mechanical rework center stationed in Japan. Working with my hands is a great joy of mine and one I would utilize for years to come. After separating I began working as a commercial carpenter for the Bronx VA Hospital. In the summer of 2015, a Piano was dedicated to our hospice ward. A beautiful John Varvatos designed limited edition piano. However, it did not come with a piano bench, nor did we have one. After working hours, I quickly designed and constructed a new piano bench from recycled materials and shop hardware I could pull together. The piano bench ended up matching the piano and was ready in time for a private session from the Juilliard school of music's performance for VA patients. That feeling of creating and designing was once again awakened. That year I left construction and entered Pratt Institute where I would graduate with honors in Bachelor of Industrial Design, 2019. After graduating college moved to Arizona where I began working as an arts program specialist, curating both music and art engagements for Mayo Clinic. Curating and working so closely with many great artists lead me to engage in creative arts once more. 2021 I left Mayo and went to work as an exhibit designer for Music Instrument Museum, and while both of those jobs were short-lived, I enjoyed the environments and opportunities gained.