Gashkibidaaganan (Bandolier Bags) by Anthony Buckanaga, Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe — Photo by Evan Bungum, MLCV’s Digital Media Specialist
Art is a never-ending story, a word far too complex to define. Often, the meaning falls within three categories: representation, expression, and form. Each speaks to creative activity, typically awakening a sense of joy or purpose. Art’s origin isn’t any less intricate, though history suggests it has been around for thousands of years, with some of the earliest interpretations known as indigenous or aboriginal art. This art form refers to creation from many types of people, generations, nations, tribes, and clans — with the commonality of being those who originally inhabited the land.
Indigenous Art Impression
Three Sisters All Races Bouquet by Patrick Kruse, Rec Cliff Band of Superior Chippewa & Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe — Photo by Evan Bungum, MLCV’s Digital Media Specialist
Indigenous art has tremendous benefits for both the creator and the observer. From a cultural perspective, the valuable and sometimes embedded traditions are brought forward through symbolism and visual representation. The creator adds strength and longevity to their culture, and the art’s presence spreads knowledge and connection to the observer.
Because the work of Indigenous artists is frequently a craft learned through generations, the result is thoughtful and carries a fragility of heart that must not be lost.
MLCV has a stake in this truth. With MLCV’s foundation rooted in the investment of securing and enriching the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe and the surrounding community, it’s imperative to bring forth and preserve generations of cultural inspiration and wisdom. MLCV’s 2022 Indigenous Art Installation is one way this objective is being honored.
MLCV Indigenous Art Installation
Prayers for a good winter in the northern MTNs by Jesse Raine Littlebird, Laguna/Kewa Pueblo — Photo by Evan Bungum, MLCV’s Digital Media Specialist
MLCV’s 2022 summer intern, Bella Nayquonabe, teamed up with MLCV’s Director of Planning and Community Engagement, Beth Gruber, for a project that has left a vibrant effect.
Mask by David K. John, Navajo Nation — Photo by Evan Bungum, MLCV’s Digital Media Specialist
Bella, having grown up with an artist for a mother, had the vision to bring cultural art treasures to the MLCV HQ building. Throughout the summer of 2022, Bella worked to locate and purchase various original art pieces from credible Indigenous artists across the country. She describes the inspiration behind this undertaking as a way to uplift Native Americans and open perspectives along the way. “Native people have struggled with a barrier that separated them from things like the art industry. In this project, we wanted to give Native artists a chance of publicity along with exposing ourselves and others in the community to different types of art,” she says.
Hawaiian Mask by Unknown — Photo by Hannah Torkelson, MLCV ‘s Brand Communications Specialist
The journey of discovering such findings is as beautiful as the art itself. Bella connected with artists from the Southwest to the Midwest and brought home pieces from the Navajo, Kiow-Choctaw, and Ojibwe tribes. She even met an Elder Polynesian artist during a Luau on a family trip to Hawaii, where his generosity had her in awe. “He took the time to share the background of each piece of art that he created. His wife even gave me a basket she had handmade,” Bella shares. This encounter led to spotting her most memorable artwork, a dragon wood mask he had built by hand. “When I first examined the mask, I found it rather spooky, but then I learned the background story of it. He instructed that it was to be put on or near a door and is used to scare bad things away,” Bella explains.
The Great Healer by Milton John, Navajo Nation — Photo by Evan Bungum, MLCV’s Digital Media Specialist
Through this project, Bella learned that art is beyond something to admire. Art is important. And Just as the dragon wood mask had a powerful intention, there is almost always more than meets the eye. “Through all the art I purchased, when analyzed carefully, you can see a story being told. I have learned to cherish and admire this,” she expresses.
There are now over a dozen carefully selected indigenous art pieces purposefully placed throughout the fourth floor of the MLCV HQ corporate building. Beth and Bella have plans to continue this endeavor by bringing in authentic native street art and, with them, their stories.
This article was written by Hannah Torkelson, MLCV’s Brand Communication Specialist. Hannah is a storyteller and is responsible for capturing great moments within MLCV’s portfolio.