#NativeAmericanArtists - Items of Refuse, by Heather Newton Brown
4 December 2025
"My series, 'Items of Refuse' is an exploration of the tension between reclaiming and creating beauty from discarded objects and identity. I gather items considered 'throw away,' pairing them with phrases commonly used to dismiss or #marginalize others. Through this process, I confront the societal norms perpetuated by #capitalism, #colonization and #ConstructedBinaries, with the intention to transform.
"Repurposing metal items alongside abstract art and reclaiming derogatory phrases offers me a way to celebrate #HumanCreativity and perseverance while challenging oppressive systems. This work serves as a reflection of my response to social and #environmental crises, highlighting the importance of #resourcefulness and #resilience in the face of adversity.
" 'As We May Think' was created while sorting through #ephemera. I was struck by the relevance and resonance of topics we are struggling with currently. Time magazine clippings from 1945 had haunting similarities to articles that could be read today, related to war, politics, relationships, household needs, and world affairs. I decided to be curious, and to let the process guide me. The result is pieces of our history brought together in ways that reflect on our history, and our current trajectory."
Source:
https://www.wabanakireach.org/as_we_may
#WabanakiNews #WabanakiREACH #IndigenousArtists #HumanArt #ArtMadeByHumans #Reuse #Repurposing #SolarPunkSunday