Arts and Artisans Oregon is rich in many ways — not only in its famed natural beauty but also in arts and culture. Home to numerous Native artists and performers of various genres, these occupied lands provide a wealth of inspiration. Artwork is an integral means for Indigenous communities to celebrate and share their histories and ideologies, often weaving together the past and the present. For many, art serves a purpose that’s bigger than creating something inspiring. In a post-contact world, Native art was central to survival. Today it is a form of storytelling, connecting people with their roots and environment. Here are just a few examples of the many talented, impactful Native artists working in Oregon today. ROBERTA JOY KIRK After losing much of her family’s regalia and other cherished possessions in a house fire, Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs member H’Klumaiyat Roberta Kirk undertook the task of learning to make her own heirlooms. Her expertise and passion are evident in her impeccably detailed beadwork and leatherwork. Kirk has garnered several accolades, including the Governor’s Arts Award in 2020, and her work is featured in ceremonies and powwows around the state. Through apprenticeships, Kirk shares traditional designs from her Tenino and Wasq’u culture. Now younger generations are also learning from her wealth of knowledge: Kirk currently teaches her granddaughters and community members beadwork, promotes cultural continuity, and advocates for the preservation of Native heritage.
ANTHONY HUDSON A master of connecting creative work with activism, Anthony Hudson highlights their Two-Spirit identity throughout their performances. Two-Spirit people have long been recognized and honored in Native communities, where they hold a sacred place and are considered balance keepers. Hudson, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, balances their life as an award-winning artist, writer, drag-queen performer and filmmaker. Performing as drag clown Carla Rossi, Hudson confronts difficult issues with humor and laughter to create, they say, a more relatable and empathetic environment. “Radical honesty” is the goal for Hudson as they dive into myriad challenging topics such as white supremacy, complacency and mixed identities. In character, Hudson also co-hosts the weekly Gaylords of Darkness podcast.
6
G U I D E TO O R EG O N I N D I A N CO U N T RY
DAVID BERNIE
Baskets by Bud Lane III
