Mvskoke Creek visual artist Bobby Martin is responsible for telling his story by exploring identity. He draws inspiration from his treasured family photos to create artworks symbolizing a continuum of his Native identity. Bobby describes it as a collaboration with his family. He uses various techniques, such as encaustic painting, photo etching, and drypoint, to enhance the familial images and awaken their memory. Layered in many of his pieces are maps that create a sense of place and its significant connection to Native identity. Bobby believes maps contain a structure of power and history. The maps of Indian Territory, Oklahoma, and Mvskoke Territory represent the current and historic homelands of his Mvskoke family and Oklahoma Native people. These places hold cultural aspects that give us identity. We have an essential connection to place; they are places where our language exists, traditional dances are strong in spirit, and they provide a sense of belonging within a societal structure. I compare Bobby's “accumulated layers of paint, ink, or wax” method to the complexity of Native identity. Like his work, these places represent layers of histories, generations, and memories. He evokes comforting feelings and reminds everyone of what is essential in life- family.

Co-curator, Welana Fields Queton
Osage, Muscogee, and Cherokee Nations