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FEATURES
42 NO LONGER ROOKIES OF HOLLYWOOD We speak to actors and best friends Andrew Orozco and Kiowa Gordon
46 INDIGENEITY
Ryan Young fuses culture, fashion and art together with his photo project Indigeneity
49 SPRING READY
Defy Mi Designs show us how to get ready for spring
CONTENTS
WINTER 2013
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40 STYLE 12 13 14 16 22 26 19 27 28
DESIGNER PICK: CREE NISGA’A BEHIND THE INK: ALICIA’S INK STYLE BRIEFING SPRING REFRESHING SPRING FEVERISH MENS’ STYLE MENS’ PICKS HISTORICALLY AND CULTURALLY RELEVANT GENTLEMEN’S SPRING ESSENTIALS
LIFE
31 TRIBAL DISENROLLMENT 32 GOOD COMPANY: WE’RE IN BUSINESS 32 ELEVATING ENTREPRENEURSHIP
33 SUICIDE: HELP PREVENT IT 34 PRIDE OF THE CROWN
ART
37 POWWOW DOLLS 38 CREAVITY BY GRAFFITI 35 CREATIVE DUO
CULTURE
39 EACH FOOTSTEP ETCHES FREEDOM 40 MY DOOR TO THE WORLD
RADAR
54 2 ARTISTS YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO NOW
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MAGAZINE
Editor in Chief KELLY HOLMES Executive Editor/Director of Photography DEREK NEZ Executive Managing Editor JOHNNIE SISNEROS Creative Director MCKAELA ARVISO Media Relations/Southwest Director MARCUS TSOSIE Marketing/Sales CHRISTOPHER KINNEY Beauty Editor HELEN ORO Women’s Fashion Editor TATIANA TOM Men’s Fashion Editor KELLY HOLMES Current Events/Life Editor BRANDON ECOFFEY Art/Entertainment Editor JOHNNIE SISNEROS Culture & Education Editor EVERETT BAXTER Proofreader/Production Editor SAHIYELA OHITIKA WIN CONTRIBUTORS GIA BOLTON, ROSHAN SPOTTSVILLE, SUITE JSG, DEFY MI DESIGNS, MARCUS TSOSIE, MICHAEL SCABBY, RYAN YOUNG AND BLAIRE RUSSELL
NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE is published four times per year by Native Max & Other Media Ventures, LLC. To obtain additional copies, please email info@nativemax.com. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. COPYRIGHT 2013, Native Max & Other Media Ventures, LLC. Published in Denver, Colorado, by Native Max & Other Media Ventures, LLC.
Headquarters: Denver, Colorado, USA
FACEBOOK.COM/NATIVEMAX
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TWITTER.COM/NATIVEMAX
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INSTAGRAM.COM/NATIVEMAXMAG
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EDITOR’S WELCOME
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new year is upon us and we are excited about discovering what lies ahead. Over the last year, we have learned that you can plan, predict and wonder about what lies ahead, but every day will present you with new and unexpected challenges and opportunities. Get comfortable with the idea of not knowing, be resolved to jump into the unknown and just move forward. As we have learned, the best ideas, opportunities and adventures unfold when you are willing to just let go and see where the moment takes you. We in the Native Max family have a lot to be excited about as we start the new year. Our Native Max team is expanding as we add more members every month. Along with the addition of members, we are also branching out internationally, since we just opened our regional office in Canada. We’re securing various ways you can have Native Max everywhere you go, starting with mobile apps. Another exciting venture we are taking on in the beginning of the new year is an online clothing and accessories boutique and a personalized Native Max apparel collection. Perhaps most of all we are looking forward to the many Native Max events that will bring us together in 2014. Along with hosting events with our readers and fans across Native communities, we’re also collaborating on special occasions with leading professionals of Indian Country. Coming up in March is Rocky Mountain Indian Chamber of Commerce Business Expo’s Runway Show, in partnership with yours truly. We also would like you to know, every day we are working to make our com-
pany stronger. All of us here at Native Max work hard to bring you inspirational stories, as well as content that you won’t find anywhere. We are still building our foundation, and determined to make 2014 our best year ever. At Native Max we will continue the work of getting that word out in every way we can. Thank you for being part of this effort. Our winter issue may be a little late, but we definitely believe it was worth the wait. It is a celebration of the those that have dared to step into the unknown to discover and explore their full potential in all areas of fashion, art, music, entertainment, education, business and activism. We are very honored to have Kiowa Gordon and Andrew Orozco grace the cover of this issue. Both men are extremely talented and down to earth individuals despite their growing success. They are living proof that dreams can and will come true if you work hard and refuse to give up. We are, also, very pleased to be able to share with you the talents and accomplishments of all the individuals and businesses featured within this issue. With every story here, we hope that it inspires you to cross into the new year with a refreshed sense of determination, discipline, awareness, discovery and hope. Enjoy the issue.
@kellzholmes KELLY HOLMES FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
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MAKE US PROUD
AIM FORWARD Louis Still Smoking is a Blackfeet artist who wants to pass the struggles and stories of A.I.M. to the next generation.
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ouis Still Smoking, a Blackfeet artist, is currently working towards a studio art degree at Montana State University along with a minor in Native American Studies. Still Smoking got inspiration for his latest work through his research on A.I.M (American Indian Movement) activism, protesters, the distress flag, and the need to express historical figures through line and color. Still Smoking wanted to give awareness to their struggle to the next generation of protesters and activists. The oil painting took 2 1/2 months to paint and one day to install the entire piece at the Montana State University Art Building where it is currently located. The installation includes a 5 foot oil painting of
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Dennis Banks, painted red poles representing tipi poles in the shape of the distress flag, and free spelled backwards with white paper behind the red poles. To view more of artist Louis Still Smoking’s work, visit his website at www. stillsmokingart.com. His painting is located at the Montana State University Art Building. Do you have a story to tell? Make us proud by sending us your inspirational story to info@ nativemax.com. Please include an essay of 250 words or less and a high res photo of yourself.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LOUIS STILL SMOKING
By Kelly Holmes
STYLE
SPRING REFRESHING A refreshing take on spring style; page 16
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STYLE
DESIGNER PICK
CREE NISGA’A Native Max fashion editors Kelly Holmes & Helen Oro share their designer pick of the season: Cree Nisga’a Designer Cree Nisga’a Photographs by Udor Fotography
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STYLE
BEHIND THE INK This season, every true fashionista will be striding around town in ALICIA’S INK. Meet this season’s buzzing designer that decided to take ordinary boots, wallets and purses to marvelous creations.
A PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALICIA SMITH
licia is a true artist who can transform a plain pair of boots or flats into works of art. Alicia, a member of the Nuu-chah-nulth Nation of British Columbia, wanted to see clothing, shoes and accessories of Native design that you could wear every day, and not just on special occasions. Drawing traditional animals on her shoes has started a new trend and small but booming business for Alicia, whose talents are sought after by hundreds across the world. NATIVE MAX: What’s your tribe? Where are you from? ALICIA: My tribe is Nuu-chah-nulth Nation, which is on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. I was born and raised in Victoria B.C. and have been living in Burnaby for fourteen years.
What are some of the designs you draw onto shoes, clothing and accessories? The designs I draw are traditional animals such as eagles, bears, wolf, raven, and killer whales. What inspired you to draw designs onto shoes? I have been drawing Native art since I was 8 years old and always wanted to be a Native artist. Growing up I always had a passion for Native art but never pursued a career. As a teenager I modeled for fashion shows for First Nations designers and always wanted to see clothing, shoes and accessories that people could wear everyday and not as just formal wear. In 2012 I was unemployed, and took up drawing again. I began drawing on my own shoes and they became popular on Facebook, so I began designing on purses, earrings and wallets. Check out more of Alicia’s Ink and order your custom boots or accessories at facebook.com/ theinkofalicia.
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STYLE
BEAUTY
STYLE BRIEFING WINTER 2013
Essential style tips from one of Indian Country’s fashionable makeup artists, Tecia Jackson.
1. Life just got simpler. Keep your spring dresses unpacked; instead incorporate them into your winter wardrobe by layering them with a cardigan, leggings and over the knee boots. Why not toss on a scarf, too? 2. A must-have item this winter is a denim button down shirt. It can be worn alone or with a crewneck sweater over it. Wear this look with everything from slacks to skirts to leather pants. Whether you dress up or dress down, this look with a black beanie will bring a little funk to your outfit of the day. 3. Skip the classic black pea coat this winter and shoot for plaid for a change up. Make a bright statement with a pop of color. 4. Tired of wearing jeans? Slide on a fitted sweater dress, paired with tights or stockings with overthe-knee boots. 5. One can never have too many scarves. Arrange them from chunky & knitted, to sheer & heavy print. Wear with anything & everything, it’s sure 14
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Makeup Artist and Stylist Tecia Jackson
to be your go-to-item. 6. Going out tonight? Turn heads with a semi-classic look: a tuxedo blazer layered over a sheer top, shorts, tights and ankle boots. 7. Whether it’s a center part or deep side part, pull your hair back into a low ponytail and wear it slicked down. This works for both a day in the office or out at the grocery store. 8. Not into the sleek look? Go for a grunge look by scrunching your hair with hair spritz or salt spray. 9. It’s time to step away from the full, heavyfringed bangs this winter. Instead make them choppy and wispy. 10. Fresh skin is a great look this season. A neutral eye tone with soft blush is the go-to makeup look. Another pretty yet simple look is bare cheeks with bold eyeliner. Top off the look with red lips and red nails. For a not-so-sleek look, smudge your eyeliner a bit.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TECIA JACKSON
REPORTED BY: KELLY HOLMES
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SPRING REFRESHING Farewell, neutral browns and wools. Revive your style and personality with pastels, eye-catching patterns and airy frocks. Photography by Mike & Jamie Dupris
Photography by Mike & Jamie Dupris Models: Nancy Negrette, Lisa Wradizlo and Jensen Peone Styling by Models
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STYLE
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STYLE
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SPRING FEVERISH MODEL: NOEL ALTAHA PHOTOGRAPHY/STYLING BY KELLY HOLMES
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STYLE HIS STYLE
FINISHING TOUCH
ATHLETIC WEAR ALL ABOUT NEECHIE
Contrasts emerged as a key trend of men’s accessories at fashion weeks across the world. Try these intricately-graphic beaded cuffs by Native jewelry designer Dominique Tsinnie.
Finally, we are starting to see athletic wear geared towards Native athletes.
N Beaded Cuffs, Beadwork by Dominique Tsinnie, shop.beyondbuckskin.com PHOTO COURTESY OF DOMINIQUE TSINNIE
eechie Gear, an athletic sportswear brand for men, women and kids based in Canada, is solely focused on providing opportunities to underprivileged kids to play sports. Founder and CEO Kendal Netmaker, from the Sweetgrass First Nation of Saskatchewan, experienced firsthand the difficulties and limited means of joining a sport in elementary school. Kendal’s family had neither way of paying the registration fees nor means of traveling to and from practices and games. When given the opportunity to play on a soccer team by his friend’s family, Kendal immediately accepted and continued to play sports through high school and into college. Kendal has been a part of, and witnessed what sports can do for youth by developing elite athletes and future leaders. Today, Kendal and Neechie Gear are committed to giving a portion of proceeds to help underprivileged kids play sports. PHOTO COURTESY OF KENDAL NETMAKER
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STYLE HIS STYLE
HISTORICALLY AND CULTURALLY RELEVANT HOW N8V COUTURE DESIGNER ANDY SARCIA-PELTIER IS AN INNOVATOR OF THE FASHION WORLD By Gia Bolton
O PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDY SARCIA-PELTIER
ne lyric from a song was all it took for N8V Couture designer Andy Sarcia-Peltier to find inspiration for his new line. After hearing the line, “Definitely Native, take responsibility for being educated” from hip hop artist Tall Paul’s track “Song Prayers”, Sarcia-Peltier wanted to prove the rhyme right and decided to launch a line that would make a statement, such as the lyric. “This statement can be substituted for various amazing things that Native People are,” says Sarcia-Peltier. “I look forward to subtly utilizing more empowering statements in my future projects and products to come” GIA BOLTON: What is your tribe and where are you from? SARCIA-PELTIER: I am an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa from Belcourt, North Dakota. GB: What inspired you to create N8V Couture? My inspiration for N8V Couture comes from my belief that we as Native American people can produce historically and culturally relevant fashionable clothing, which
represents us, our beliefs, and our goals. GB: What do you want the world to know about N8V Couture? I would like the world to know that within the Native American community bridging the gaps between generations, from rural and urban locations is the key to survival of our people. With the many capacities of Natives working towards this goal, I like to feel I am doing my part with N8V Couture. GB: What is the hardest part of starting your own business? As a business owner, the hardest part has been gaining capital to grow my business. The interest is definitely there, we have amazing artists to work with, and our designs have been well received. GB: What are your goals for N8V Couture? I am striving hard to open a Native American owned, ran, retail store front here in Seattle, WA. We also work with blacklistmedia.net to produce an amazing promotional video, stay tuned. WINTER 2013 NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE
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STYLE
GENTLEMENS’ SPRING ESSENTIALS Every gentleman has a wish list for the Spring. Here’s ours, starring Christian Weaver PHOTOGRAPHY/STYLING BY: KELLY HOLMES
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Layers, fitted blazer, and a classic pair of oxfords. Give your look a casual feel with fitted jeans.
STYLE Medallion + Polo ...and a red watch.
Classic button-up and pants. Let your jeans rest and try on some patterned pants.
Drop the silver and add a beaded necklace
A scarf ...is nice on a chilly day.
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LIFE
TRIBAL DISENROLLMENT: THE NEW GENOCIDE Tribal disenrollment has become a very contentious issue, but it’s not a new trend by any means. It’s a growing trend akin to a modern day genocide that has legally eliminated thousands of Native people across the United States. BY JOHNNIE SISNEROS ILLUSTRATIONS BY GEORGE HELT AS SENSATIONALIST AS THAT SOUNDS, tribal disenrollment does not just nullify a person’s tribal affiliation, it strips them entirely of their cultural identity. We discuss how the revocaton of tribal membership has “legally” left thousands of natives tribeless for the sake of green and political corruption. Although it is true that they will always be native by blood and spirit, they are no longer recognized as being Native American and deemed ineligible to receive the benefits and privileges afforded to enrolled tribal members, such as access to healthcare, housing, tribal schools, various social and educational programs, land allotments, per capita payments as well as tribal and federal educational stipends
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and grants. However, the greatest loss that comes from this theft of their identity is that it severs the connection that we all have as native people to our community, to our traditions and to each other. But let’s be honest, the ramifications of disenrollment go beyond just affecting the social, economic and spiritual well-being of those who are facing disenrollment and those who have been disenrolled. It threatens the relationship between tribal leadership and tribal members because it calls into question the fairness and legality of their motives, which is seemingly fueled by greed and political corruption. It threatens the continued economic growth and stability of tribal and native owned business ventures because the negative press surrounding tribes involved in the revocation of tribal membership battles may cause investors to second guess or pull their funding. It threatens our federal funding as well as our recognition as tribal entities, since funding and federal/state tribal recognition is often determined by the number of tribal members. What’s worse is that it CAN happen to anyone, at anytime and in any tribe regardless of their blood quantum, ancestral lineage, traditional participation or community standing. There is no honor or justice in taking away an individual or family’s cultural and spiritual heritage because of political corruption and greed. We have struggled for centuries to protect our heritage and existence against the never-ending threat of cultural genocide by the government and mainstream society. It’s just downright tragic that natives now being stripped of their cultural identities and and land at the hands of their own people. It makes absolutely no sense when you consider the cultural, genealogical, political, and economical implications that terminating a family’s tribal membership will have on current and future generations. You many think that this will never be an issue you face, but the truth is that it affects us all. The moment that we start amending each other out of existence is the moment that we give the government and the media power to do the same. The sacrifice that our ancestors made so that we could continue to exist should not be honored by allowing the continued genocide of our people. We All Belong.
Read the rest of this story on our website, www.nativemaxmagazine.com
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LIFE careers
ELEVATING ENTREPRENEURSHIP
GOOD COMPANY: WE’RE IN BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTING ENTREPRENEUR-SHIP IN INDIAN COUNTRY WE’RE ALL ABOUT PROMOTING Native businesses. In our Spring/ Summer 2013 issue, we initiated an ongoing article about Native entrepreneurs of Indian Country and the impact of Native-owned businesses. Like we mentioned in part 1 of this series, Natives are starting to have a huge impact on the U.S. economy and with more Natives starting their own businesses, Indian Country’s future seems brighter and stronger than ever before. In part 2 of our series, we exclusively interview Christian Weaver, an entrepreneur of the Shinnecock tribe who pursued a business venture that would help his people and and Navajo business owner Jerald Martin, who owns his own specialty event services. Christian Weaver, a member of the Shinne-
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cock nation, realized a problem in Indian Country regarding artists and designers. “We had a dream to create a venue where artists are celebrated, not exploited and where they can really see profit from their work,” explains Christian. “That’s what NDNcraft. com is all about” Weaver is the founder and owner of NDNcraft.com, a website that provides an easy and affordable vehicle for Native crafts, designs and art to be bought and sold. Please explain your business, NDNCRAFT.COM. Jerald Martin, of the Navajo Nation, realized his potential of entrepre-
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neurship at a young age, which came naturally to him. Now a sole owner of his very own upscale entertainment services business, SUM Entertainment, Martin has successfully established a reputation throughout Indian Country with his extravagant, professional events and parties. However, hosting events isn’t the only goal on his agenda; Martin also uses SUM Entertainment to promote Native talent as well. In your opinion, why do you think Natives starting their own businesses and companies is beneficial to Indian Country? It provides structure for those wanting to start a business. Seeing your own people succeed only provides fuel to one’s fire to do the same.
Entreprenative is focused on elevating entrepreneurship in Indian Country Entreprenative, an online platform and community focused on entrepreneurship for Natives, is growing popular as more Native business owners are added to the group. Collin Price, the founder of Entreprenative, exclusively interviews Native entrepreneurs for his podcast about their journeys to growing their own businesses. Price is a 31-year-old family man of the Ho-Chunk Nation. Price got his inspiration to start Entreprenative from his past experiences of owning his own businesses. He suffered “entrepreneurial loneliness”, or the loneliness phenomena most entrepreneurs feel. Price also couldn’t find a place that had resources and guidance. Unable to find other successful Native entrepreneurs, Price decided to start his own platform, Entreprenative Media. Price’s mission with Entreprenative is to elevate entrepreneurship in Indian Country. The Entreprenative podcast is a free flowing conversation with today’s most successful and inspirational Native entrepreneurs. With one guest per episode, he digs deep into their journey of entrepreneurship and uncovers the struggles and monumental highs that go with creating and growing a business. His podcasts are available on iTunes for free. Price also provides resources for people looking to start their own entrepreneurial journeys on his website. Another side of Entreprenative Media is consulting small businesses with social media marketing, where he helps businesses improve their social presence via social media. Visit entreprenative.com for more information about Entreprenative!
CHRISTIAN WEAVER: COURTESY OF WEAVER; JERALD MARTIN: COURTESY OF MARTIN
Christian Weaver
LIFE HEALTH
SUICIDE. HELP PREVENT IT This time of year is joyous and exciting. However, for some, this time of year can be the lonliest, which can lead to a spike in suicides BY RAQUEL HARRIS
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t’s the holiday season (despite which traditions you may or may not celebrate.) In most areas, the weather is starting to get a little cooler and we will soon spend time with those that love us the most: family and friends. However, not everyone will have the opportunity to spend time with their loved ones this year because of an epidemic that has plagued the Native American community: suicide. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, in 2007 suicide was the 10th leading cause of death within the United States; and the highest amount of suicides were amongst the American Indian/Alaska Native community. Suicide is preventable by having proper access to resources within the community and with the proper education. By answering these five questions: who, why what, how, and where, will provide answers to questions about suicide. Who commits suicide? Often times, suicidal acts are stereotyped by a certain individual. People tend to look at an individual that wears black, listens to gothic music, and is the loner. While this stereotype incriminates these individuals, anyone can commit suicide! Although this act plagues everyone and no one is exempt, statistics show that males commit suicide more often than females commit suicide. Males are more likely to finish through with their plans than females and males are more likely to commit suicide in a fashion that is more appalling than females. Any ethnicity is at risk for committing this horrific act, both American Indians/ Alaska Natives have the highest risk of committing suicide. This leads into the second of, why do people commit suicide? Individual’s commit suicide for a number of reasons: untreated mental illness, a sense of belonging, and for no known reason. Having proper access to mental health treatment is difficult amongst the Native American/Alaska Native community because of lack of proper health care professionals. Having access to these services is crucial for the community. Often times, mental illness is often overlooked in families because of lack of education about mental health illnesses. With proper mental health treatment the individual can look at treating
their mental health and deal with unresolved grief that could potentially lead up to suicidal ideations and acts. Suicidal acts are not always about mental health and unresolved grief. Sometimes individual’s commit suicide because of wanting to have a sense of belonging. This is often heard in the media with the suicidal bombers or with the infamous William Shakespeare story of Romeo and Juliet. Being a human being we are biologically meant to be social creatures. We meet people, we have families, we go to work, etc. Belonging apart of something is important. Having a sense of belonging is especially important for today’s youths and the elderly. The youth today have access to so many technological resources that were not available in past generations. This leads them readily susceptible to information that may not have otherwise been available if not for social media. Kids are being bullied at schools and neighborhoods and online. This goes back to wanting to have a sense of belonging. While today’s youth are susceptible to the negativity of social media, elderly are also at risk for wanting to have a sense of belonging. Unfortunately, elderly people are often forgotten and may be at risk for committing suicide for the same reasons as today’s youth. They are not as mobile as their younger years, have increased medical problems, and are often living alone. Sometimes family members or friends get so caught up in their own lives that this generation is often forgotten. Elderly people play an important role in the American Indian community so it is important this generation is not forgotten. Where can I go to receive help? Start, by calling the National Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-Talk (8255). This number will start by helping individual’s find the nearest location for mental health treatment within their communities but for immediate services call 911. Also, At the Indian Health Services website for behavioral health http://www.ihs.gov/behavioral provides a lot of information for mental health and suicide prevention for the American Indian community and health care professionals.
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LIFE
PRIDE OF THE CROWN Pageantry was more than just a crown and title to First Nations member Carrissa Lowhorn. It was her golden opportunity to speak on issues that were important to her and her people. Embracing all the obligations that accompanied her titles and crowns, Carrissa traveled the world, spreading her culture and promoting the importance education, all the while helping her people in their time of need and finishing her own education. BY KELLY HOLMES PHOTOGRAPHS BY TONI GALLOSHI & BLAIRE RUSSELL
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arrissa Lowhorn always had a passion for helping others in need. From the Siksika Nation, her humanitarian instincts have led her towards a path in pageantry. To Carrissa, pageants aren’t about who is the most beautiful or wealthiest, but about standing up and speaking for her people. In 2011, Carrissa was crowned Miss Southern Alberta and went on to compete nationally. Based on her performance and educational background, Carrissa went on to winning a national title as Miss Canadian Scholarship Ambassador, accompanied by a scholarship. Carrissa carried this title for a year, which gave her the opportunity to enhance her volunteer efforts. She also spoke to First Nations youth on the importance of education; an issue Carrissa is strongly passionate about. As a young girl Carrissa faced adversity within the education system. “I was told that I was a special student with ‘basic’ potential, and currently I am proving them wrong,” Carrissa adds. This past July 2013 Carrissa was selected nationally to represent Canada on an international level in the Miss Tourism Planet pageant in Athens Greece, where she won the
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Miss Cosmopolitan award. The Miss Cosmopolitan award is awarded to a person who is most familiar with and at ease with many different cultures. However, just before her journey to Greece, Calgary and surrounding areas were affected by a major flood. Over two hundred homes in Carrissa’s community of the Siksika Nation were devastated by the flood, including her family’s home. Carrissa managed to help as much as she could a few days before she left. In October 2013, Carrissa was selected to represent the USA in the 2013 Miss Globe World Finals, in the Republic of Albania. Carrissa went on to win the Miss Cosmopolitan award for the second time in one year. Although Carrissa had been juggling education, working and volunteering together, all of her hard work finally paid off. Carrissa graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in International Indigenous Studies this past November 2013. In January 2014, Carrissa will travel to Miami, Florida to pass on her title, Miss USA, and help select the next Miss USA to compete internationally in Albania for the 2014 Miss Globe World Finals. Native Max: Have you always wanted to participate in
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LIFE
pageants when you were younger? Carrissa Lowhorn: When I was younger I never really thought of pageants until the Miss Congeniality movie. I now have to laugh to myself about that one because pageants are not all what they are perceived to be. In my younger years I was a girly girl mixed with tom boy qualities. I use to play ice hockey regularly growing up. You traveled to Greece and Albania earlier this year, what was your experience like in Europe? When I competed in Greece this past June, I learned that Greece was devastated by an economic crisis. While in Greece, I will never forget the time I was sitting at a table at an outdoor restaurant, and a little girl came up to me playing a small guitar, wanting money. The owner of the restaurant chased her away, but before she left I secretly handed her some change. The little girl’s face lit up as she ran away. It was heartbreaking to see because she somewhat resembled my little sister. It made me happy and sad at the same time, but I felt good because I made her smile. As for visiting Albania, I learned that it is a newly developing democratic country. Albania was once under communist control as well as war struck. Wherever you go in Albania you see homes under major construction and most of the buildings are half finished. Seeing a country in a developing state really made me appreciate and realize how lucky I am to live where I live. My overall experience of visiting Europe had a humbling affect over me. I will always remember how Europe made me feel; I felt like I was in a different time in another world. I thank the creator every day for all his blessings and showing me all these beautiful places. Do you give back to your community? Why do you feel it’s important to do so? I have volunteered for various events within my community and continue to do so. My community has always supported me in
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all my endeavors. Volunteering and inspiring others is my way of giving back to my community. What do you hope to achieve with your titles? I want to inspire other First Nations youth and show them that anything is obtainable through hard work. With the titles I won I’ve been given the opportunity to enhance my volunteer efforts and speak on issues that are important to me. What are the biggest lessons you’ve learned on your journey of participating in pageants and earning your titles? With all the volunteer work I’ve done through pageants, I learned the true importance of helping others in need. Helping others is my tribute to remembering and appreciating the people who helped me along my journey. I believe that without persistence and the help of others I would not be where I am today. We are all connected. What is the best part of being in pageants? The best part of pageants is that they have helped me with my interpersonal development skills within my everyday life. I have gained confidence in how I present myself and overcoming the fear of being present and speaking in front people. Pageants also gave me the opportunity to showcase my culture and who I am as a First Nations woman to people from all over the world. And the worst part? The worst parts of pageants are the endless hours of walking in heels and blisters, late nights and early mornings. How did you balance your personal life and education with the commitments your titles required of you? Without my spirituality I would not be where or who I am today. I strongly believe that the creator has helped me with everything I do. I try my best to eat healthy and keep physically fit. I also keep myself grounded by surrounding myself with people who love and support me. I believe that balancing and grounding ourselves can help to make life less crazy, because life is already crazy as it is.
ART T POWWOW
DOLLS
When Sarah Weston realized her young niece needed a doll that represented her Native American culture, she took it upon herself to create a doll that would reflect both her beauty and heritage. By: Gia Bolton
PHOTO COURTESY OF SARAH WESTON
he ambition that drives Sarah’s Powwow Dolls is the loving support from her companion, her family, and the little human growing inside her. With their encouragement and relentless love, she accomplished several goals, from earning a certificate from New York Film Academy, to planning a commercial for her line of powwow dolls. Sarah’s love of art began when her mother taught her how to sew when she was only 11 years old, and has been sewing since. Eager to learn new techniques to master her unique skills, beadwork has become another passion of hers. Sarah periodically takes special orders for beadwork earrings alongside her powwow dolls. “I love art in all its forms,” She also remains humble and knows she is blessed to be able to support her growing family with what she loves to do. GIA BOLTON: Where are you from? SARAH: I am Mdewakantonwan (Dakota), an enrolled member of the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe. What was the inspiration for making your dolls? I was inspired to create these dolls when I realized my nieces had no dolls of their own that represented them culturally. Dolls are the representation of the self for young girls; I create each doll in the hopes the girl who receives it will see it as her beautiful reflection. I’m grateful for the opportunity to feel purposeful in creating dolls that instill cultural pride and reflect beauty into our children’s hearts. Since there are so many beautiful diverse tribes, I do custom orders upon full payment. What are your future endeavors for your dolls? I would love to have at least one design be picked up by a major doll company and be a creative director for that line. I’m currently working on creating a sustainable Native doll company that will thrive; to support a full-time income for me and other Native designers that assist me. Do you hope to create your own dolls in the future? Until we get to create our very own dolls, I currently use store-bought Bratz dolls. The two foot dolls are $150 and Barbie doll size prices vary between $35 & $45.
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ART
CREATIVITY BY GRAFFITI
Graffiti is more than just precise calculations of shapes and lines on a wall to graffiti writer & artist Kailani; it’s her life By Daryl Begaye
PHOTOS COURTESY OF KAILANI
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In November, I was given the opportunity to meet and interview a remarkably gifted Navajo artist by the name of Kailani. Before this assignment, I had never heard of this artist nor had I seen any of her work. After briefly researching her art and probing my connections on whether or not they had heard of her, I was intrigued and set up a meeting at the LA Underground in Albuquerque. A fitting location based on Kailani’s art style and subject matter. Her graffiti pieces are of calculated designs of digital and pointed shapes and lines, utilizing the location and surrounding graffiti pieces to enhance her work, which clear shows her understanding and control of color. Her canvases contain some elements as her graffiti pieces; the only difference is the use of muted and complementary colors, warranting further study. DARYL BEGAYE: How long have you been painting? Kailani: I’ve been painting graffiti since 2006, prior to that I started with acrylic as a kid. At this point do you consider yourself an established artist? Definitely, I definitely feel that I’m established right now. I’m working on the Los Altos Restoration Project in Albuquerque for the Warehouse 508, a youth oriented place. The biggest class they have is a mural art class, instructed by my good friends Buerto and Faustino. I’m also freelancing, doing logos. I’m working with a couple of businesses, on top of all that I do have a part time job at Van’s. I’m really trying to go for the art; I’m also painting and stretching canvases worth about a thousand each. Do you face any challenges trying to promote yourself and your art? It is hard to promote myself but at the same time I think it’s good that it takes time for those things, it takes time for people to get to know your art. Right now, I’m working for that, I’m putting in work for it. I’m waiting for my time, just being patient about it. Along the challenges of self-promoting, are there any obstacles of being a female graffiti artist? Actually, surprisingly, I’m a peaceful kind of graffiti writer; I’m not one to disrespect somebody. Every writer I’ve ever met, throughout my life has had something positive to say about me, and a lot of people really like the art that I do and they respect me because I have really technical style as well, so it’s a one up for me to be female now, it’s not hard at all. View Kailani’s works of art at homeproductculture. com and her Facebook page
CULTURE EACH FOOTSTEP ETCHES FREEDOM Northern Cheyenne honor homelands with Fort Robinson Outbreak Spiritual Run By Sahiyela Ohitika Win
A
ll is still- except the blood in our veins; it passionately tears through our bodies full of adrenalin and determination. All is silent- except the highpitched song echoing off wooden barracks; a few voices belt out, carrying melody and remembrance. Standing shoulder to shoulder with our relations, we reflect on the absolute courage we descend from; their death brought us to life. The frigid air and snowy doorstep anxiously await the release of hundreds of little feet. Our grandmothers wrapped in blankets stand outside in small clouds of their own exhalation. This moment holds the weight of 134 years, and every spirit embraces the one next to it. The song comes to a close and the doors open. An eruption of emotion outpours into the Nebraska night at the sound of lulus and warhoops. Once again, stars witness dark escape. The journey begins.
Our eagle staff and Northern Cheyenne tribal flag are handed between nearly one hundred youth as they cover 400 miles in a five-day, relay run back to the homelands. At every hand-off, encouraging words are passed from one individual to the next. There is intent in their step. There is sacrifice in every breath. They are quiet in prayer. The on-looking eagles and horses that gallop in tandem with the children remind them that they are carrying the spirits of our ancestors who were shot and killed on that doorstep on January 9th in 1879. They run for those who never had a chance: the teenage boys who climbed the bluffs and lit fires to distract the cavalry while their families fled into the winter night; the 2-year-old girl who hid in The Last Hole, not to be found and taken back to the fort, but who was instead shot at point-blank range; and the infant who saved his mother’s life by resting on her back as she ran and taking the bullet
meant for her. Our kids run for them. Our run brings them home. Our home is who we are. The 1879 Fort Robinson Outbreak is the single most important event in history that allowed for the Northern Cheyenne homelands to be recognized by the United States government, and affirmed by executive order from the President. Our land is paid for with the blood of our ancestors who never made it back. Their undying will to live free is what ensured the future generations have a place to call home, forever. Every year, our feet and prayers carry those spirits to the North Country. As we’re taught, “This is not a Cheyenne issue, a Native issue- this is a human issue.” Join us in acknowledging the stories beneath your feet. Because as you read this history, my heart beats this history, and as you walk this earth, we walk this hurt. So please remember: we will never forget.
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CULTURE
“MY DOOR TO THE WORLD” For many high school students on reservations, the thought of college outside their borders seem frightening. For Josie Green, Lakota, college opened the door to the rest of the world PHOTO BY JOSIE GREEN
I
am Oglala Lakota of the Pine Ridge Reservation, but I grew up in the small town of Wilmot, SD just outside of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Reservation. Before graduating from Tiospa Zina Tribal School in 2009, I was a small town girl with big dreams of going far away to a big city for college. However, when it actually came down to choosing a college, I found out that Minnesota State University Moorhead was only 100 miles away from home and had a nationally recognized Graphic Design department. The community here is big enough to feel like I’m far from home, yet small enough so it wasn’t a huge change. EDUCATION IN MIND I had no other choice in my mind besides going to college. What else was I going to do after graduating high school? I knew that I couldn’t get a job that I actually wanted with just a high school diploma. I was also just a kid; I didn’t even want to work. After being in high school for twelve years, all I knew how to do was learn. It probably helps that I really enjoy learning. It also helped knowing that I wasn’t going to be going through high school again, and that college was going to be a different. College is a choice. GETTING READY Before going to college I chose Graphic Communications because it came almost natural to me. I taught myself how to use Photoshop when I was in high school and it grew from there. I love color, photography and design. These were all options in the Graphic Communication field. It’s fascinating figuring out how to represent a person, place, or product using graphics. I’m in love with the challenge. Although I knew college was going to be a little scary, I reminded myself that every other freshman was in the same boat as me. No one has a clue about what is going on. Since no one knew me, I was free to be whoever I wanted to be. GREAT OPPORTUNITIES THROUGH COLLEGE Going through the university experience in itself constantly reminds me that I’m alive. So many doors are open to me simply because of
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school. I’ve had the opportunities to study abroad for five months in Turkey, work at a mission in Guatemala, take a spring break trip to volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, participate in the Washington Internships for Native Students (WINS) program, intern for the US Agency for International Development, work on campus for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and be the President of the American Indian Student Association. All of these experiences and more happened because I am in college. LOOKING INTO THE FUTURE Senior year has been different than the past few years. The classes I’m taking are all classes in my major and everything just feels different. It has finally hit me that I am going to be in the “real world”. I wish I could stay in school forever! At first I was a little stressed out thinking about what I was going to do after graduation, but then I realized: I am going to have so much time to just do stuff I want to do. I can’t wait! PRICELESS EXPERIENCE I cannot stress enough how much college has helped shape who I am today. Many life skills have been learned throughout my years in school such as the continuous challenges of interesting classes, meeting new people, and learning to manage my time. I challenge our youth to take a step forward once they receive their high school diploma or GED. My biggest accomplishment was learning to put myself first. This is a very hard thing for our people to do. We come from a very family- and community-oriented culture and making yourself number one feels selfish, but it’s not. Obstacles are constantly thrown onto our paths causing us to fall; many times we don’t even realize that these obstacles aren’t ours. Sometimes they belong to family or friends, yet we feel obligated to fix things. When you’re on a plane they tell you to assist yourself before assisting others. Do what is best for you. Maybe that’s college, maybe not. But when you allow your heart to follow its dreams, amazing things happen. Do you!
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NO LONGER ROOKIES OF
HOLLYWOOD
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BY
K ELLY H OLM E S PHOTOGRAPHY
MI K E SC A B BY
With enough acting experience and resumes that just keep getting longer, actors and best friends Kiowa Gordon and Andrew Orozco have already established themselves in Hollywood, as Native actors
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WHAT’S IT LIKE TO BE IN THE SAME ROOM AS ANDREW OROZCO AND KIOWA GORDON? It’s normal, mostly. You know how some actors turn into big-headed, selfish and egotistical snobs who don’t care to meet you unless you’re a big-time celebrity yourself? Andrew Orozco and Kiowa Gordon are not like that, at all. On this evening – a day in the middle of the week some part during the Fall – I visit with both guys, which isn’t the first time I meet Orozco, but is for Gordon. Gordon is a really nice guy, who Orozco considers one of the few “very down-to-earth” Native actors still left. Orozco and Gordon both open up about their friendship, upcoming projects and what it really takes to make it in Hollywood as Native actors. How long have you two known eachother? KIOWA GORDON: I met Andrew awhile
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back. We’re really close. ANDREW OROZCO: Pretty good, we’ve known each other for about 3 ½ years. I grew up with Kiowa’s sister, we went to the same high school and then I met Kiowa. We worked together throughout the years. We’re really good friends. We’re currently working on a few projects together, including Native Max. Since you guys are best friends, what qualities do you admire most about each other? ANDREW: What I admire most about Kiowa is that he’s a very down-to-earth guy, very cool to chill with, he cares a lot about people. He doesn’t let any of the fame get to his head, he’s very humble. KIOWA: Andrew’s a really nice guy, hard-working dude. What are some of the projects you guys are working on together?
ANDREW: Besides Native Max, hopefully a show, I just got a script sent to me. It’s a show called Dead Man. It was actually confirmed so if everything works out we’ll be working on that project together soon. Other projects are the 21st Century Skins Calendar. We also do a lot of events, signings and stuff like that together. What about your separate projects? KIOWA: I got a show coming out on the Sundance Channel, sometime in the early spring. It’s called The Red Road. I’m also in a movie called Drunktown’s Finest which is going to be in the Sundance Film Festival. I’m also going to do a film with my buddy Bronson [Peltier] in February. I also have t-shirts that I sell on Big Cartel called Walapai Clothing. ANDREW: I have a film called Concrete 49, also starring Shiloh Fernandez, which will debut in the Sundance Film Festival. It’s a film about Native Americans and the stereotypes they face. The main character goes to New York to pursue acting and while he’s out there a lot of people stereotype him, like why is he out there. Throughout his journey he finds other Natives in which he stereotypes them as well. When he’s out there he finds himself spiritually. I’m really proud of that film. Another film coming out this coming year is Bangs to My Chest. I’m also going to be doing a music video with Tinsel Korey, in which we’re actually scouting locations for the next few weeks. Also in February we’re going to launch an action figure of myself. Although you guys are established actors and only adding more films to an already lengthy resume, do you guys still get nervous when going into a casting or audition? KIOWA: [LAUGHS] I’m not really fond of auditions. I go in and do my best but I do get nervous still. ANDREW: Yes of course we get nervous. There are a lot of people there at a casting, sometimes it feels like you are competing against a wall sometimes; it’s intimidating. All you have to do is do your best, and know the character you are auditioning for; just give it your all and hopefully you will get the role. Overall I love doing that because it helps you get better at your craft.
If you get that one role where there’s about fifty other people competing for the same role, you know that you got it because you’re the best actor there or you have something unique that the director was looking for. As Native actors, do you get type-casted a lot at auditions? KIOWA: Yeah, I get that sometimes. Like I go into a casting and see everybody sitting there, blonde-haired blue-eyed, and lightskinned. I’m sitting there thinking, “Man, I stand out” with all these people at the casting looking the same and then I get the call back saying I didn’t make it and if I’m watching that certain project and I see who got the role, then I think, “Oh they were looking for that certain look obviously” ANDREW: I feel Hollywood type-casts a lot of the Native American actors which makes it a bit more difficult for us to get a bigger, mainstream role but overall I really feel strongly that there should be more mainstream Native American actors. Do you feel there should be more Native actors in Hollywood? KIOWA: Yeah. I think more Natives should try to make it into Hollywood. ANDREW: Yes I do think there should be more Native American actors in Hollywood and more mainstream. That is what I strive to do in my career, hopefully I can be a mainstream Native American actor. Adam Beach mentioned in an interview that for him, Hollywood casting non-Natives to play Native characters set a dangerous precedent because it conveyed a message to Native actors that they were not good enough to carry a leading role. Do you find any truth to that statement? KIOWA: Yeah. I mean, there’s that message that Hollywood puts our people on a lower tier than our Caucasian counterparts, so we do find it difficult to be able to get a job in Hollywood easily. ANDREW: Definitely, especially when you’re Native American and they stereotype you and sometimes it’s hard for Natives to break into other things other than just playing a Native American. But I think it’s a good challenge if a Native American can break out into something that is more than that, more power to them for break-
ing stereotypes of Hollywood. For that I support Native actors that are trying to get into mainstream just as any other actor out there. That’d be pretty awesome to see one of our Native actors make it into mainstream, like Tom Cruise-level or whatever. Has there ever been an instance in which you felt pressured to portray a version of who you are as a Native in a negative light? KIOWA: Not so far but I’m sure it’ll come up some time. Hope not. Hopefully one day Natives will get away from the stereotypes that Hollywood portrays us as and show them that we are as talented as anyone else. ANDREW: No, I haven’t experienced that just yet but I am sure there will be a time where that will happen. When it does happen I need to stay open to who I am and scripts that do not discriminate who I am as a person. This is why it is hard to get certain roles as a Native actor because some roles portray a Native in a negative light but you have to be open-minded and optimistic, but I will never forget who I am. Do you feel any pressure to uphold a certain image of yourselves? KIOWA: Sometimes. I just have my privacy and not worry about what people think about me. ANDREW: Your image is like your role in
acting, and that’s not who you are really, it’s the image you portray to the public eye. I get a lot of that misconstrued. I know who I am and that’s the only thing that matters. People can judge you by what they see but only you know who you are. Like for example: Before I made it to Hollywood and met these actors, I didn’t know what they were like. When I do meet these actors I’m like, “Wow this guy is really cool!” like I did when I first met Kiowa. So that’s why you can’t judge someone by who they portray in a movie because that’s not who they are.
Read more of the interview online at nativemax.com
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RYAN YOUNG FUSES CULTURE, PRIDE AND FASHION TOGETHER WITH INDIGENEITY With his photography project Indigeneity, Ryan Young hopes to bring a literal and physical appearance of what it is like to live and exist as an indigenous person in mainstream society and Indian Country, while promoting cultural awareness to not just the UW campus but anywhere where indigenous culture is deemed nonexistent. BY JOHNNIE SISNEROS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYAN YOUNG
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Indigeneity is a photo project by Ryan Young, Lac du Flambeau Ojibwe, an upcoming photographer that aims to literally showcase the duality of what it is for an Indigenous person to live in mainstream society, while maintaining their cultural identity. The project features Native students attending UW-Madison and serves as a way for them to represent who they are in both worlds. For example, one model is a fancy dancer studying to practice law and another is an Anthropology major who drums, dances and facilitates cultural ceremonies and events on campus. The inspiration and the focus of Indigeneity was Ryan’s desire to bring cultural awareness to the UW campus, where Natives account for only .28% of the entire student body, and to anywhere that indigenous cultures are misrepresented, misinformed, and deemed nonexistent. NATIVE MAX: What inspired you to take an interest in art and photography? RYAN YOUNG: While attending school, I made a lot of friends who are art majors and activists. While getting into social justice work, a lot of my friends were turning their activism into artwork. I was inspired to do the same but wanted to promote cultural identity at an institution where the Native American student population is under 1%. I bought my first camera during my second year and just started taking pictures. Do you find it challenging to retain a connection to your
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culture and people while attending a school that lacks a large native population? I’ve found it surprisingly easy to stay connected to my culture. I attended Wunk Sheek, the native student organization, right away at the beginning of my freshman year. While in Wunk Sheek I had the chance to experience a lot of different experiences that connected me to my culture even more. I observed a midewiwin ceremony, organized a pow wow for the campus, and went to cultural events outside of Wisconsin. As I took over leadership of the organization, I built a lot of strong connections with other native students and we see each other as family. My experiences outside of the organization were a little different. When I first dealt with my academic peers appropriating my culture and dealing with cultural ignorance in the classroom, I was very angry and outspoken. But as time went on I channeled that into my artwork, which is why there’s such a strong aspect of identity in a lot of my work. Is this what inspired Indigeneity? Yes, I wanted to show folks that we are still out here. It’s difficult going to classes and have peers sound surprised that natives still exist. It’s annoying and frustrating to experience that and thought a perfect way to remedy the situation was to show native UW students representing their culture and academic education/career aspirations in their appearances.
SPRING READY We get spring ready with Defy Mi Designs
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSHAN SPOTTSVILLE DESIGNS BY DEFY MI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY Roshan Spottsville DESIGNS BY Defy Mi JEWELRY BY Viaggio Da Design, LLC MAKEUP BY Fabulous and Beautiful Makeup by Sarah MODELS Naomi Yazzie, Aubrey Escalanti, Arayona Escalanti & Brittany Gene
RADAR
2
ARTISTS YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO NOW
CODY BLACKBIRD
RIAH
Out of Page, AZ. Navajo singer Riah decided to take her smooth, soulful chops up a notch and pursued a singing career. This rookie on the rise surely captured our attention the moment we listened to one of her most liked singles, “In the Middle”. Her soft yet powerful voice makes it hard to believe she only started singing some four years ago. Riah plans to re-release her album, Believe, December 17, which has been re-mixed and re-mastered and includes four fresh new tracks. Favorite Track: “Sun Is Shining”
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Dakota and Cherokee flutist Cody Blackbird is just the right mix of traditional and modern. Now with his newly formed band, The Cody Blackbird Band, he fuses flute-music with guitar, bass, drums and percussion. Growing up, Blackbird has lived on various reservations throughout the country, due to his father’s job with the USDA Department of Natural Resources. As a child, Blackbird had a taste of the entertainment industry when he accompanied his father, who was an accomplished songwriter and guitarist, traveled to different gigs. Blackbird recently put together his new band, The Cody Blackbird Band, after years of solo performances and traditional flute music. His band comprises of Brian Lebrun on guitar, Mike Reardon on bass, Ed Koban also on guitar, Kurt Olson on drums, Chaske Stewart on percussion, with the
leader and his flute in the front. Due to the unique blend of music Blackbird and his band create, they dubbed this sound “Alter-Native Fusion”, with the Native flute as a quintessential element of the band. Besides music and traveling, Blackbird also partakes in giving back to his community. With his annual scholarship award he’s founded, Blackbird and his committee select a deserving Indigenous student every fall for a $2,000 scholarship. Currently Blackbird is in the process of forming a non-profit organization called Music Is Life Foundation, where he plans to provide musical instruments to reservation and rural community schools that couldn’t otherwise afford them. Blackbird plans to release two new albums, one with his band and a solo album, within the next year. Favorite Tracks: “Hear My Cry” and “Sacred Ground”
CODY BLACKBIRD: COURTESY OF BLACKBIRD; RIAH: COURTESY OF MARCUS TSOSIE
Here are 2 artists on our minds as we wrap up the year. Cody Blackbird, a smooth flutist and Riah, a gracious R&B singer.
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