In the Studio with Amber DuBoise-Shepherd By Kristin Gentry
Amber DuBoise-Shepherd, Sunday Morning with Chei (Grandpa), 2020, watercolor, pen & ink, Copic markers, 21.5” x 26.5”
How does your tribal culture influence the content of your work?
Growing up, my brothers and I experienced and were immersed in our various Native cultures. I grew up in a what I consider a traditional Native household here in Oklahoma. My mother is Navajo and she grew up on the Navajo reservation. I remember participating in ceremonies on the Navajo reservations as a child. My late great-grandmother, Louise Begay, was very traditional. She created Navajo rugs. She spoke mostly Navajo and some English.
I have very fond memories of her. My father is Sac & Fox and Prairie Band Potawatomi and grew up here in Oklahoma. He took my brothers and me as children to our traditional Sac & Fox feast where we were given our Indian names. My Sauk name is Mohkehmehshe, meaning “One That Suddenly Appears.” I also have a Navajo name, but as Navajo people we keep our names to ourselves. My father also learned traditional ceremonial doings from the Midewin society, which is a medicine society up near the Great Lakes area.
Can you describe your professional arts practice?
I tend to keep a busy art schedule. I try to be sure to spend time in the studio and I schedule out that time. I also try to spend time updating my website and social media throughout the week. This way I am engaging with my audience. I try to be on top of updating my paperwork for my artwork. For myself, I spend more time marketing, writing about myself, and (continued to page 22)
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