In her latest solo exhibition at the Sasse Museum of Art, "I Am Alive, a Breath, a Trail," Indigenous artist Brittany Kiertzner delves deep into the profound exploration of her quest to forge connections within the realms of loss and insecurity. Through a captivating narrative, Kiertzner unravels the intrinsic vulnerability encapsulated within the dichotomy of life and death, particularly focusing on the subsequent generations of Indigenous women.
Central to Kiertzner's body of work is the symbolic significance of the color red, which emerges as a potent symbol representing the prevailing silence and indifference that shrouds Indigenous women. Tragically, many of these women find themselves ensnared in the shadows, either missing or succumbing to violence. Kiertzner confronts these boundaries head-on, manifesting abstract figurative depictions within her sculptural works. These bodies serve as both a commemoration of those who have been lost, capturing the essence of their absence, while also portraying the resilience of those who persist, navigating the tumultuous currents of dysphoric conditions.
The Sasse museum utilized the expertise of curator, Ahmad Shariff, who notes that "Kiertzner seeks to immortalize the stories that might otherwise be forgotten in the silent annals of history. Kiertzner's engagement with the theme transcends mere aesthetic representation, delving into the socio-cultural narrative that envelops Indigenous women. Through her woven panels, she initiates a discourse on the interconnectedness of our lives and the urgent need for acknowledgment and redressal." For more information regarding this Shariff is reachable at https://www.ahmadshariffgallery.com/
Symbols such as circles, portals, and faces populate Kiertzner's work, offering symbolic commentary on the endurance of those who survive amidst adversity. These symbols reflect the strength and tenacity required to persist in the face of systemic challenges. Moreover, Kiertzner's art not only embodies the physicality of the lost but also serves as a collective voice, echoing the stories of Indigenous women who have been subjected to societal negligence.
In the intricate interplay of form and color, Kiertzner captures emotional landscapes through a fiber medium, making connections through the intermingling of color and form. By bridging the gap between the personal and the collective within the social landscape, Kiertzner invites the audience to reflect on the broader implications of systemic negligence.
"I Am Alive, a Breath, a Trail" serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength of Indigenous women, while also challenging societal norms and attitudes towards their experiences. Through her art, Brittany Kiertzner amplifies the voices of those who have been silenced as amplified by groups like the Red Hand Movement and Native Hope, ensuring that their stories are heard and remembered for generations to come.
Comments