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02.26.2021
Artist Spotlight: Terry
Through my work on an advisory council formed to provide perspective on a Native American Art exhibit in development at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, I was presented with the opportunity to sit for a session with Will Wilson a Diné (Navajo) artist and photographer who uses early 20th century photography equipment and techniques to create contemporary portraits of Native Americans as a counterpoint to the portrayal of Native Peoples by non-native photographers such as Edward S. Curtis at the turn of the last century. Crystal Bridges later decided to acquire one of Wilson’s works and chose my portrait. It is now part of the permanent collection at the museum.
As the portrait’s caption indicates, I am a member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma by both blood, and by Freedmen Descent. My maternal grandfather was “Full Blood” Cherokee. As his direct descendent I can quantify my blood quantum which is the pedigree the Federal Government uses to determine who is, and isn’t, an Indian. My father’s great grandfather is listed on the Freedmen Rolls of the Cherokee Nation. His people were formerly enslaved by Cherokee Citizens. Many people are unaware that slavery was practiced by handful of Indian Tribes. Following the Civil War, the Cherokees signed a treaty with the United States granting Freedmen full citizen rights in the Cherokee Nation.
Going into the sitting, I wanted to capture the essence of many of the images from Curtis’ work with somber and serious tones but offset it with my brightly colored shirt. I asked to showcase my long dreadlocks which represent both my African heritage through their style as well my Native heritage their traditional length. Finally, I wanted to juxtapose the antique methods and feels of the portrait with the very contemporary pair of sunglasses hanging from my shirt at the center of the picture.
My hope is that my portrait will inspire curiosity. My wish is that visitors will see it and begin to rethink their perception of Native Americans as relics of the past. Maybe others will wonder about the term “Freedmen descent” and a quick Wikipedia search will open the door to a chapter of history of which they may not have been aware.