Awanigiizhik Bruce, Beadwork and Acrylic Paintings
Title of work: Ginanaakonaamin SARS-CoV-2
Artist: Awanigiizhik Bruce
Tribal Affiliation: Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa
Date of Work: c. 2022
Description: Awanigiizhik Bruce’s "Ginanaakonaamin SARS-CoV-2 (We Inclusive Are Fighting Back Against SARS-CoV-2)" is a powerful piece that blends traditional Anishinaabe visual motifs with a modern response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a Two-Spirit artist from the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, Bruce uses this work to convey the collective strength and unity of Indigenous communities in fighting back against the virus. The title emphasizes inclusivity, underscoring that the battle is shared by all. By integrating cultural elements with contemporary struggles, Bruce creates a dynamic representation of resilience, inviting both Indigenous and non-Indigenous audiences to reflect on the interconnectedness of health, culture, and survival.
Citation: Bruce, Awanigiizhik. Ginanaakonaamin SARS-CoV-2 (We Inclusive Are Fighting Back Against SARS-CoV-2), 2022, Awanigiizhik. www.awanigiizhik.com/products/ginanaakonaamin-sars-cov-2-we-inclufighting-back-against-sars-cov-2.
Title of work: Gimanidooke'aan ji-aanjitoong Akiing, You Have the Power to Change the World
Artist: Awanigiizhik Bruce
Tribal Affiliation: Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa
Date of Work: c. 2023
Description: Awanigiizhik Bruce's artwork, "Gimanidooke'aan ji-aanjitoong Akiing, You Have the Power to Change the World," encapsulates a profound message of empowerment and responsibility. The piece depicts a vibrant cosmic scene filled with various creatures and figures, including turtles and dancing people, all set against a deep blue background that symbolizes the interconnectedness of life. The presence of the moon and stars adds a celestial dimension, suggesting a harmony between the Earth and the universe. The use of Anishinaabe language in the title highlights cultural heritage, inviting viewers to engage with Indigenous perspectives. The term "Akiing," meaning "on Earth," emphasizes a deep connection to nature and the vital responsibility to protect it for future generations. Overall, Bruce's artwork serves as a hopeful call to action, urging individuals to recognize their power to effect change and participate actively in fostering a more equitable and sustainable world rooted in Indigenous wisdom and community values.
Citation: Bruce, Awanigiizhik. Gimanidooke'aan ji-aanjitoong Akiing, You Have the Power to Change the World. Acrylic on canvas, 96 x 48 inches, 2023, Awanigiizhik. Dreaming Our Futures: Ojibwe and Ochethi Sakowin Artists and Knowledge Keepers.
Title of Work: Quillwork Study #1
Artist: Awanigiizhik Bruce
Tribal Affilitation: Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa
Date of Work: c. 2022
Description: Awanigiizhik Bruce's "Quillwork Study 1" beautifully showcases the intricate art of quillwork, a traditional practice among the Anishinaabe people that involves the meticulous use of animal quills to create decorative patterns. This piece highlights Bruce's masterful ability to blend color and texture, drawing the viewer into a vibrant world that reflects both aesthetic beauty and cultural storytelling. The arrangement of quills not only captivates the eye but also serves as a reminder of the connection between art and identity within Indigenous cultures. The artwork embodies a deeper narrative of resilience and cultural preservation. As a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, Bruce's work reflects the importance of maintaining Indigenous traditions in the face of historical challenges. Quillwork has been practiced for centuries, and through pieces like this, Bruce honors the skills and knowledge passed down through generations. The vibrant colors and organic shapes found in the quills represent the natural world, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship Indigenous peoples share with their environment. Additionally, Bruce’s emphasis on traditional craftsmanship speaks to a broader theme of cultural resurgence and empowerment within Indigenous communities. By reintroducing traditional art forms into contemporary contexts, artists like Bruce assert their identity and educate audiences about their heritage. This piece serves as both a celebration of Indigenous artistry and a call to recognize the importance of cultural heritage in shaping contemporary narratives.
Citation: Bruce, Awanigiizhik. Quillwork Study 1. 2023, Awanigiizhik. www.awanigiizhik.com/products/quillwork-study-1.