The Insider On the Edge of Something Great Creating art that defies viewers’ expectations and traditions with modern forms of artistic expression is undoubtedly an accomplishment. However, contemporary Native American artists are taking it a step further. They’re fearless, in positions of disregarding any rules for their artistic style to portray their people in a current context, changing how the world perceives Native people. Here’s our list of cutting-edge contemporary Native American artists who all use their preferred mediums to incorporate culture, traditions, and storytelling into their art while addressing Native American social issues. BY KELLY HOLMES
PLUS: TATTOOS AS CULTURAL ART nativemax.com
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Chad Yellowjohn At first, art was a way for Chad "Little Coyote" Yellowjohn (Shoshone-Bannock/Spokane) to express himself. "I was considered a mute, which means I didn't speak much," explains Yellowjohn. "When I spoke, it was jibberjabber." The positive reactions from family members seeing his drawings gave Yellowjohn the satisfaction needed to keep going. "I had a gift and wanted to spread that same joy to people." Raised near a small community called Usk, Washington, Yellowjohn quickly gained an interest in free-hand illustration, relaying ideas blossoming from imagination to paper. Now, Yellowjohn shows the world his art while sharing his story and spreading inspiration and awareness of the issues that Indigenous people face in modern society. Today, he is motivated to promote optimistic activism and spread happiness through his art while incorporating laughter. Please share with us a little bit about yourself. I began drawing at the age of 2. My middle name and Indigenous name is "Little Coyote" (so don't be fooled, I am not a rapper though I've always wanted to produce one song). I've only completed two acrylic paintings in my life. I always had long hair. My favorite cartoon character is Goofy because he was a single dad who wanted to be a part of his son's life, and he's goofy. My favorite movie is Who Framed Roger Rabbit, and my dream is to make an animation where I'd be able to SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 27
