Featured Artist: Jesse Littlebird

A tangible synthesis of his indigenous roots and an homage to his artistic influences, Jesse Raine Littlebird (Laguna/Kewa Pueblo) is a multi-disciplinary artist, filmmaker, and storyteller. Born in Santa Fe, NM, in 1992, Littlebird's childhood was richly enveloped in art and culture. Jesse's parents were artisans themselves and encouraged their son to pursue the path of an artist from the start. 
 
Littlebird's work marries Western and Indigenous thought elements, extracting inspiration from Southwestern landscapes, Indigenous culture, and historical perspectives. Littlebird's abstract expressionist style incorporates cultural symbols and motifs while promising to deliver archival art references. The art he produces from his unique frame of mind has caught the attention of the Southwest art scene and collectors across the globe. 
 
Littlebird says this about his art, "My work is inspired by teachings, prophecies, and stories common among Earthly rooted people. I delve into the inner workings of what makes up thoughts, choices and actions of humankind, past, present and future. I would consider myself a sampler of art history that utilizes détournement as a function of critique of modern-day life and conversations. For example, applying a quote by Vine Deloria Jr. "An Indian never questions whether or not he is an Indian. The query he faces is what kind of Indian. "and juxtaposing that thought with a figure or a mass amount of figures in a landscape of energy and color.
 
A painting tells a story if you listen closely."

Jesse is a Sundance Institute Full Circle Fellow and Andy Warhol Foundation recipient.