My name is Inanna McCarty, and my Indian name is kʷaɁowišč tyee. I come from the waɁač and Tsawout First Nations villages and am a descendant of both Nuu-chah-nulth and Coast Salish families. My paternal lineage traces back to a long line of whalers, as well as the Hamatsa and Wolf Society, while my maternal side practiced the Big House ceremony. I am five generations removed from the signing of the Makah Treaty. My family on both sides has endured so much for me to exist today, which testifies to their tenacity. No one could stop us from being who we are. I strive to honor their legacy through my work. Family is a pillar in our society, and much of my artistic inspiration comes from my family and heritage. In my culture, it is a great honor to carry on another's story. My life experiences have pushed me to grow and explore as an artist. I have been creating art for over a decade, during which I have developed an interdisciplinary skill set. I work in various artistic mediums including painting, beading and metalworking. I have also spent significant time in digital and graphic design, wood carving, weaving, writing, and photography. I have faced many challenges over the years and have turned to art as a means of healing. I do not consider myself a master by any means; there is much to learn and perfect. I believe each medium serves a purpose in expressing what is within. I am largely self-taught, but I have received guidance from many family members. My father has been the biggest influence on my development as an artist. I have studied the work of different artists as well. Susan Point, in particular, has inspired me greatly as a woman who has accomplished so much across various mediums. I studied her designs, such as “Vanishing Point” and “The Spindle Whorl,” which inspired my skate fish constellation silk scarves. Transformation is an important element in Nuu-Chah-Nulth spiritual beliefs. The story of the Killer Whale-Wolf transformation tells of a time when food was scarce on the land. The wolves and orcas made an agreement to hunt in each other's territories. In our belief, they are a duality of the same being. My design of the Killer Whale-Wolf transformation was inspired by my time on the water. As I looked at how the bow of the boat cut through the water, I was reminded of the creature leaping about. I worked on this design for nearly two months to get it just right. At some point, I would love to revisit this design.

[email protected]
Olympia, WA