Alfred Decoteau, Willow and Alabaster Sculptures
Title of Work: Diamond Willow Bear
Artist: Alfred Decoteau
Tribal Affiliation: Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa
Date of Work: c. 2010
Description: Alfred DeCoteau’s sculptures reflect his Chippewa heritage and deep connection to his tribal environment, where the ability to perceive negative space between trees—essential for hunters—translates into his talent for seeing the form within wood or stone and bringing it to life. His work, rooted in Chippewa mythology and shaped by cubism and abstraction, subtly conveys cultural sovereignty, asserting the importance of Indigenous identity through artistic expression. While it doesn't directly address political sovereignty, it invites audiences—both Indigenous and non-Indigenous—into a worldview that blends nature, survival, and artistic creation.
Citation: Aktá Lakota Museum. “Diamond Willow Bear.” Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center, St. Joseph’s Indian School, shopping.aktalakota.org/museum/art-gallery/sculptures/diamond-willow-bear.html. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.
Title of Work: Diamond Willow Elder
Artist: Alfred Decoteau
Tribal Affiliation: Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa
Date of Work: c. 2010
Description: The "Diamond Willow Elder" sculpture by Alfred Decoteau conveys a deep connection to the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa’s cultural heritage and environmental roots. The piece not only reflects the intricate relationship between the artist and the natural world but also embodies the tribe's historical experiences, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and preserving cultural identity. This sculpture serves as a testament to sovereignty, celebrating the tribe's artistic expression and resilience.
Citation: Aktá Lakota Museum. “Diamond Willow Elder.” Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center, St. Joseph’s Indian School, shopping.aktalakota.org/catalog/product/view/id/1946/s/sculpture-diamond-willow-elder/category/188/. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.
Title of Work: Alabaster Buffalo Sculpture
Artist: Alfred Decoteau
Tribal Affiliation: Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa
Date of Work: c. 2010
Description: The "Alabaster Buffalo Sculpture" by Alfred Decoteau powerfully symbolizes the cultural significance of the buffalo to the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa and Indigenous peoples in general. This artwork reflects a deep connection to tribal history and sovereignty, emphasizing the buffalo's role in providing sustenance and cultural identity. The intended audience includes both Native and non-Native viewers, inviting a broader appreciation for Indigenous traditions and the ongoing importance of the buffalo in the context of environmental and cultural preservation.
Citation: Aktá Lakota Museum. “Alabaster Buffalo Sculpture.” Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center, St. Joseph’s Indian School, shopping.aktalakota.org/museum/art-gallery/sculptures/alabaster-buffalo-sculpture.html. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.