Indian Country Traveler & Photographer

Respect 4 Mother Earth

" Treat the earth well, it was not given to you by your ancestors, the earth was loaned to you by future generations."

-Native American Proverb

©Marilyn Angel Wynn- NativeStock Pictures

You can view more pictures at www.nativestock.com

Vote For My Blog

Recently I linked up with NativeBiz. They are Indian Country's Business, News and Social Network. Right now you can vote for my blog "The Indian Country Traveler" or my website "NativeStock Pictures" or both! It only takes a few seconds. The links are here:

• Vote for NativeStock

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I truly appreciate you taking the time to vote and visit NativeBiz which is a very informative website on tribal issues today.
Leave your comment and let me know that you voted. I will send you a small token of my appreciation.
Thank you!

©Marilyn Angel Wynn/NativeStock.com

Walk The Sky

After months of working in my studio, I'm back on the road again and shooting. Yahoo! Today I spent a good portion of my time at the Grand Canyon Sky Walk Glass Bridge. Another way to experience one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.
Operated by the Haulapai Nation (pronounced Wall-pie) where 160 miles of the Colorado River and Grand Canyon meanders through this breathtaking reservation. Haulapai's tribal members are employed at the site and are very welcoming to visitors. Along the canyon rim is a re-constructed Indian village demonstrating the traditional dwellings of the Haulapai Indians such as the Pinion pine brush covering their wickiups. There are American Indian representatives dressed in their traditional regalia ready to pose for pictures with the tourists. But the most impressive experience is walking the glass sky bridge. A structure that juts out from the canyon walls so that you feel as if you are walking on air a thousand feet above the canyon floor. It's a real mind rush and takes several minutes to trust the glass pathway that plunges out above the sandstone cliffs. The glass loop allows you to do something that your mind says "No way in hell". 

Slideshow Presentation Available

photography by: Marilyn Angel Wynn

A few weeks ago I was invited to present my 16 years of photography during the national PBS network's TV series kick-off of "We Shall Remain". Five historic stories from the American Indian perspective. Two more series are scheduled to premier this Monday evening and the following week.

Using my laptop and available technology I put together a multi-media slide show with hundreds of images of traditional people, landscapes, artifacts, lifestyles, etc. The music used was symbolic and showcased the spirit of Indian Country and were written by Native American artists. The visual show and discussion lasted exactly an hour with questions and comments following. My presentation highlighted examples of beadwork, traditional foods and clothing that differentiated the various tribes and regions. Also discussed was what had inspired me to become the world's leading supplier of American Indian pictures along with stories of my travels and what tribal members are up to today.

All in all, my presentation was well received with record attendance. Immediately following, another association member requested that I give this same presentation to their community and not change a thing. However, as an artist, I do see areas that need some fine tuning.

Right now, I would be very interested in taking this new perspective to a college campus that offers  American Indian studies. I'm also aimed to list this new presentation as available for showings through humanities councils, tribal associations and for speaking engagements at conferences. If you have any input to where or who I might approach that would be interested in hosting this visual lecture then kindly send me your comments.

I'm available to travel, be introduced to new communities and plan to take this show to tribal communities while I'm out shooting. To book a presentation call toll free: 1 888 765-3332

During a shoot in Haines Alaska, Angel poses with friend and Tlingit elder Charlie Jimmy Senior

PBS: WE SHALL REMAIN

Thursday
April 16th, 2009
6:30PM
Hailey Public Library
presents
American Indian
Photographer
Marilyn Angel Wynn

from NativeStock Pictures will host one of the many discussions across the country to help launch the television premiere of WE SHALL REMAIN, a provocative multi-media project that establishes Native history as an essential part of American history. The not-to-be-missed episodes and show dates are:

Episode 1    April 13    After the Mayflower      
In 1621, the Wampanoag of New England negotiated a treaty with Pilgrim settlers. A half-century later, as a brutal war flared between the English and a confederation of Indians, this diplomatic gamble seemed to have been a grave miscalculation

.Episode 2    April 20    Tecumseh's Vision
In the course of his brief and meteoric career, Tecumseh would become one of the greatest Native American leaders of all time, orchestrating the most ambitious pan-Indian resistance movement ever mounted on the North American continent.

Episode 3    April 27    Trail of Tears
Though the Cherokee embraced “civilization” and won recognition of tribal sovereignty in the U.S. Supreme Court, their resistance to removal from their homeland failed. Thousands were forced on a perilous march to Oklahoma.

Episode 4    May 4        Geronimo
As the leader of the last Native American fighting force to capitulate to the U.S. government, Geronimo was seen by some as the perpetrator of unspeakable savage cruelties, while to others he was the embodiment of proud resistance.

Episode 5    May 11        Wounded Knee
In 1973, American Indian Movement activists and residents of the Pine Ridge Reservation occupied the town of Wounded Knee, demanding redress for grievances. As a result of the siege, Indians across the country forged a new path into the future.

photography by: ©Marilyn Angel Wynn

CROW CREEK UPDATE

ALERT!!!!

Please watch this video update about the power utility cut-offs on families, elders and vets on the Crow Creek Reservation in South Dakota. This week on weather: low winter temperatures, wind chills and blizzards have been reported. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYh7RI0GTJI

Jokes From The Rez

Photography by Marilyn Angel Wynn/ Nativestock.com

Laughter really is good medicine. Native people have the best sense of humor that I've ever witnessed. Each time I visit reservations I'm reminded of this genuine quality that has been an Indian custom since the beginning of time. There's nothing more enjoyable than sitting around with a First Nations family or a circle group. They really enjoy hearing jokes or telling funny stories. There's even a book called "Jokes Heard Around The Rez" by Geraldine Goes-In-Center, Lakota Sioux.

"Growing up on the Pine Ridge Reservation, Indian humor has always been a big part of my life. Being around Indian people, no matter how depressing the times become, we always make time to laugh. Telling jokes and sharing funny stories are always included at every function. I've heard the funniest stories from the announcers at Pow-wow's. Even today, I look forward to the humor told at native gatherings." Is written in the introduction of Goes-In-Center's book.

Humor was really important to Indigenous people. It's hard to understand how these people have a great  sense of humor after their ancestors had to endure 500 years of extreme hardships after European contact. I was once told by one of my friends from the Crow Reservation that "laughter makes us feel strong and hopeful. We persevere and we laugh!" 

There is nothing that gives me greater joy than to be on the road heading to one of the many reservations. To hear genuine comical stories and maybe even be the brunt of a few. By the way, you will also need to take along your sense of humor.

REZ JOKES AND NDN WISDOM!

Q:  What do you have when there are 16 Cherokee in one room?

A:  A full blood

A cocky BIA man stopped by an Indian owned farm. He told the Indian man "I need to inspect your farm for a new road." The Indian man said, "OK but don't go in that field." The BIA employee said, "See this card? I have authority of the United States Government to go where I want on Indian land." So the old Indian man shrugged and went about his chores. Later he heard loud screams and saw the BIA man running for the fence and close behind was the Indian man's prize bull. The bull was gaining on the BIA man at every step! The old Indian man called out, "Show him your card!"

In the early years, a preacher was visiting a Sioux Indian family and didn't realize how late it had become. The family invited the preacher to spend the night. The preacher asked if his saddle and horse would be safe. "Yes," said the Sioux man, "There isn't a white man for miles around."

Photo Assistants Wanted

Left to right: Photo-assistant Julie Teton, model Leo Teton, photographer Marilyn Angel Wynn, model James Tone

After spending years to photograph hundreds of American Indian tribes throughout North America, it takes dedication, focus and lots of travel. These pictures make up a large photo archive called the Nativestock Collection. Each year I pack up my camera gear and head out to tribal communities. Through research and some scouting, I look for individuals that know their culture, special events, historic exhibits and any other unique photo opportunity found on reservations and traditional homelands. You may have a suggestion about a special event, tourism in your area, people willing to model or for any other reason that I should come to your area. How about being hired as my photo-assistant? I pay individuals a day-rate and models by the hour. No experience necessary. You only need to be familiar with locations in your neck of the woods and know a handful of tribal members that are artisans, elders, leaders and traditionalists of any age. Maybe you have a family member that would like to be hired as a model or assistant. Post a message in the comment area or email me at nativestock@mac.com with your contact info and why you think I should come to your area for a photo-shoot. For some individuals, this opportunity could turn into a career in location scouting, assisting other photographers or a job on local film production. A few States that are on my wish list to photograph a tribal community or reservation are with an assistant for a few days are Kansas, Minnesota, Maine, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Washington and Colorado. I'm open for all areas in Indian Country and I plan to hire an assistant for a few days at each location. If you are a tribal member and interested to work with me as an assistant on one of my photo shoots, or know anyone else that would like this paid opportunity, then send me a note. Tell me a little about your homelands and why you feel it needs to be documented with pictures. Oh and by the way, those interested need to have a good sense of humor to apply for this position.

Target areas and events planned for 2009:

    * Seneca, Niagara Falls NY

    * Mohawk territory, Canada

    * Ojibwe Tribe, Land of Lakes

    * Spirit Journey, West Coast

    * Mescalero Apache, NM

    * Cayuse, Umatilla, Oregon

    * Klamath Rez, Oregon

    * Sioux Artist Ride, South Dakota

Hiking the Backside of Mount Rushmore

photos by Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

The creation of Mount Rushmore is a story of struggle -- and to some, desecration. The Black Hills, or Paha Sapa, are the sacred homelands to the Lakota Sioux and other American Indian tribal nations. For some, the four presidents carved in the hill are not without negative symbolism.

As a photographer, I was lucky to be invited to hike behind this most famous of all sculptures in America! To capture a rare view of what most tourists never get to see. Early one morning, I along with a few other hikers silently followed the trail through a sweetly scented ponderosa forest in the Black Hills of South Dakota, listening to birdsong and the cracking of twigs beneath our footsteps.

About ten minutes later, we passed beyond a high-security fence then scrambled up a few steep boulders and squeezed through pine branches. Wobbly stepping stones guided us into a granite crevice that runs behind the presidential heads— reminding me of an "Indiana Jones style" secret entrance. We stopped, looked up and dropped our mouths with unbelievable awe. There on the other side of the presidential sculptures, to my absolute amazement, was a surprising view that I could never have imagined.

Posted below is the photo taken during this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

JOIN ORIGINS TV

Join me on TheOriginsTV The Cultivation of Media Meeting Indigenous Content

Native American Entertainers, Pro... has: 73 friends 151 photos 3 events 9 videos 8 discussions 14 blog posts 60 songs Our Members include Russell Means,Native American Music Awards Execs., NativeStock Pictures, Shinning Elk Entertainment,OnNative Ground Radio,Sesame Street Producer Carole Hart, Kevin Annett from hiddenfromhistory.org, &more Click to Join Members on TheOriginsTV: Samuel Hay AKA Bearded Wolf Mary John Shirley K. Sneve Red Eye Video On Native Ground! About TheOriginsTV TheOriginsTV is the prophesy of Indigenous proportion, a meetingplace, where content developers of Native American and Indigenous Media Vent 89 members 351 photos 77 songs 27 videos 10 events 32 blog posts

PHOTOEDIT AND NATIVESTOCK PICTURES JOIN FORCES

"Two stock photography companies concerned with providing a diverse range of multi-ethnic imagery have joined forces to increase distribution and visibility."

     

For Immediate Release:

United States of America (Press Release) February 18, 2009 --

PhotoEdit Inc., www.photoeditinc.com, a leading provider of multi-ethnic and multi-cultural stock photos based in Orange County, California, is proud to welcome photographer Marilyn "Angel" Wynn to the team. Involved with cameras since the age of 13, Angel has experience in a diverse range of fields, from journalist photographer at an underground newspaper to documentary filmmaking and more.

Additionally, Angel owns NativeStock Pictures (www.nativestock.com), a stock photo website specializing in positive, eclectic Native American imagery. Having grown up around many Native American children and families on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Angel later survived a battle with cancer and thereafter dedicated her life to pursuing the goal of photographing American Indian tribes. For the past 30 years, she now lives in the Rocky Mountains and calls Sun Valley Idaho home

"My extraordinary career involves photographing Native Americans while traveling through remnants of Indian Country scattered across the United States and Canada," says Angel Wynn of NativeStock Pictures. "Meeting genuine traditional people, I learn specifics of each tribe’s unique culture while touring pristine landscapes that have remained untouched throughout history. Any fees earned are shared 50/50 with my Native models, as I feel that we are partners in creating these awe-inspiring images. Through the selling of stock images, I support several worthy Native American tribal programs and foundations on a variety of reservations as a way to honor their ancestors."

source: FPR

PhotoEdit is proud to offer select NativeStock images from Angel, available individually here:

http://www.photoeditinc.com/resultsframe.asp?cat=&lstFotogs=NAS&pixperpage=96&archived=Archived&zoomprev=on&x=12&y=8

             

All photographs by Marilyn Angel Wynn

Native American Newspapers

Photography by:  Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

Before visiting an area to photograph, in Indian Country USA, I do the research. One of my main tools for information are tribal newspapers for stories of annual events, new developments and interesting people. I to be a subscriber of many of these weekly's and monthly's. On occasion I've even placed ads in some to hire models or look for an assistant. Now, instead of the printed versions, I go straight to a tribal newspaper's website to search through a wealth of information. Their stories vary from governmental issues to special events all the way down to local gossip on the rez. Photo researchers that call my office looking for images of specific current happenings, which I generally do not have at the time of their request, are directed to a tribal community paper or one of the National Native American circulations. Here's a list with links to many of my favorite periodicals.

• Native Radio
• The Navajo Times
• The Cherokee Phoenix
• The Eastern Door
• Lakota Country Times
• ShobanNews
• Shastawind News
• NativeBiz
• DeKalb County Online
• Potawatomi Traveling Times
• Indian Country Today
• NativeWeb News
• Turtle Island Native Network
• Navajo/Hopi Observer
• News from Indian Country
• Red Lake News
• Indianz
• Native American Times

The Cherokee Phoenix was one of the first tribal newspapers published in the early 1800's using both english and the Cherokee syllabary language. The Phoenix press was located in New Echota Georgia and began distribution several years before the infamous Trail Of Tears.

Dreamcatchers

Dreamcatchers are an authentic American Indian tradition, from the Ojibway (Chippewa) tribe. Ojibway people would tie sinew strands in a web around a small round or tear-shaped frame--in a somewhat similar pattern to how they tied webbing for their snowshoes--and hang this "dream-catcher" as a charm to protect sleeping children from nightmares. The legend is that the bad dreams will get caught in the web. Traditionally Native American dreamcatchers are small (only a few inches across) and made of bent wood and sinew string with a feather hanging from the netting, but wrapping the frame in leather is also pretty common, and today you'll often see them made with sturdier string meant to last longer.

During the pan-Indian movement in the 60's and 70's, Ojibway dreamcatchers started to get popular in other Native American tribes, even those in disparate places like the Cherokee, Lakota, and Navajo. So dreamcatchers aren't traditional in most Indian cultures, per se, but they're sort of neo-traditional, like frybread. Today you see them hanging in lots of places other than a child's cradleboard or nursery, like the living room or your rearview mirror. Some Indians think dream-catchers are a sweet and loving little tradition, others consider them a symbol of native unity, and still others think of them as a tacky type of souvenir.

So where can you find one? In Indian territory, almost everywhere. People are making dreamcatchers 0n just about every Indian reservation in the US or Canada, and you can find them at any powwow or Indian event. But on the Internet, oddly enough: practically nowhere. Most of what you see when you search for "Native American dreamcatchers" has been mass-produced overseas in an Asian sweatshop.

However, since the Pan-Indian Movement of the 1960s and 1970s, dreamcatchers have been adopted by Native Americans of a number of different Nations. They came to be seen by some as a symbol of unity among the various Indian Nations, and as a general symbol of identification with Native American or First Nations cultures.  The resulting "dream-catcher", hung above the bed, is then used as a charm to protect children from nightmares. Dreamcatchers made of willow and sinew are not meant to last forever but instead are intended to dry out and collapse over time as the child enters the age of adulthood.

As a photographer and visitor, while traveling on a reservation for photo shoots, I generally  purchase small items from vendors who are trying to make a living with their artwork. Here's where you can buy authentic handmade dreamcatchers priced from $10-20. I tend to purchase quite a few and then give them away as gifts to special clients or at birthdays and Christmas.

It's recommended to hang the dream catcher above someone sleeping to guard against bad dreams. The  Ojibwa believe that a dreamcatcher changes a person's dreams. Only good dreams filter through and slide down the feathers to the sleeper. Bad dreams are trapped in the web, disappearing with the light of dawn.

Photographs by: ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock Pictures

Litchfield's Native American Art Festival

Planning on traveling to the Southwest some winter season? I sure like to escape from the snow here in the Rocky Mountains and head to the Southwest. Here's one for your calendar for next January! The organizers and artists of Litchfield Park's Native American Arts Festival certainly outdid themselves this year. There was a large assortment of many more artists than you would think. Once you enter the park, most artists had a table of wares under one of the large tents while a few had their own tented booths. So there were many artists to see and to visit with.

Art ranged from jewelry, katsina carvings, pottery and paintings, to music and beautiful hand made coats from Pendleton blankets. Many readers have asked about these coats after viewing  photos of the 2007 event. I sought out artist, Jeanette Ferrara, who makes these beautiful coats. She made one for me last year from the Edward Curtis Pendelton Blanket collection.  I wear this beautiful coat, that has similar reds and greys like a Navajo weaving, all the time and get many compliments each time.

Wherever possible the artists' contact information is included along with their photos. This is for readers who want to pursue the beautiful art depicted in the photos and it helps support Native artists in business during a slow economy.

You can check out more pictures on American Indian travel by going to Nativestock Pictures.

Top 10 Destinations

Got the Travel Bug, even though most Americans are holding back on vacation spending for 2009? Even for folks who've survived the financial battle, just the exchange rate on the US dollar and expensive airline tickets are reasons enough to stay at home. Travel magazines, such as Conde Naste and National Geographic Traveler, estimate that 88% of overseas travelers choose exotic destinations just for the indigenous culture experience. Taking part in an adventure to discover ruins of lost civilizations, colorful arts and craft objects and abundant photo ops.

What if I was to tell you that right here, in good old USA, you can experience all this culture and more no more than a days drive from your home? Tourism is becoming a major development for tribal nations throughout Indian Country. Many reservations already have magnificent resorts. Some include a 5-star hotel, casino and golf course at old fashion rates. You can choose to stay at 5 star resorts. Or for the traveler out to discover a quieter path, many tribal communities offer unique cozy accomodations. These are generally in closer approximity to historic landmarks and National Parks. Nationally registered Indian artists sell one-of-a-kind artwork, pottery, beadwork and baskets. At least one not-to-be-missed cultural event is sponsored by each tribe once a year.

There are hundreds of awe-inspiring Indian Country destinations. 

Here are just 10 of my favorite "must see" locations that are spread across the US.

NAVAJO LAND

 

Navajoland: Utah/Arizona/New Mexico. Monument Valley and Canyon de'Chelly. Cultural event Window Rock, AZ. Experience: Tours, weavers, silver/turquoise jewelry, Navajo tacos, hogan dwellings.  

MAKAH PENINSULA

Washington State. Olympia State Park. Culture Event Neah Bay, WA. Experience: salmon bakes, traditional dancing, canoe races, museum, sport fishing

SEMINOLE GLADES

Seminole: Florida. Everglades National Park. Big Cypress Seminole Reservation not to be missed. Experience: Swamp airboat tours, wild animal safari tours, museum, living history village, artist demonstrations, known for their colorful patchwork, alligator wrestling (really!).

CHEROKEE TRAIL

Cherokee: Oklahoma. Capital city is Tahlequah, OK. Experience: Cultural center, living history village, arts & crafts, Trail of Tears, stickball game, trace your Indian heritage.

HUPA COAST:

Northern California. Main town Hoopa CA. Experience: Cultural village, casino, museums, traditional grass baskets, scenics, salmon bake,

CROW AGENCY: 

Montana. Little Big Horn Battlefield (aka Custer's Last Stand). Experience: Museum, geometric beadwork, painted hides, wild horses, wild historical re-enactment, horse races, rodeo, casino.

MANDAN HIDATSA ARIKARA:

North Dakota/South Dakota. Capital city Fort Berthold. Experience: boat tours, golf, earth lodge village, casino, buffalo herd tour, buffalo burgers, horse races,

POWHATAN VILLAGE:

Virginia. Jamestown Colony. Experience: Pocahontas fame, museum, gift shop, living history village,  Thanksgiving. Reservation located in King County has museum and local crafts.

WAMPANOAG WAMPUM: 

Massachussettes. Cape Cod, Plymouth Rock National Monument. Experience: first Thanksgiving feast, living history museum, English colony village, Mayflower ship tour, Plymouth historic tours, lobster, cranberry bogs, wax museum. Reservation located in Mashpee MA. Tribal artists specialize in pottery and wampum jewelry made from white and purple quahog clam shells.

SHAWNEE REMNANTS:

 Ohio/Kentucky. There is no longer a per-say tribal community here as unfortunately these 2 states do not recognize the remaining descendants. However, these 2 states are abundant with remnants of lost civilizations and many historic landmarks. Experience: 

Happy New Year

Wishing all my blog visitors a spectacular, abundant and prosperous 2009 filled with new opportunities!


©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com
My #1 Goal this year is to find a book publisher for 1 of my 3 ideas for a photo book. Of course these books will focus on Native American culture and travels. Check out my extensive collection of photographic work displayed at my Nativestock Pictures website. If anyone out there would like to share their #1 Goal for 2009 then kindly leave a comment.

Native Americans Participate in Obama's Inauguration

Indian participation in Obama’s  inauguration takes shape

Photography by: Marilyn Angel Wynn
More pictures at: Nativestock Pictures

The UTTC (United Tribes Technical College) delegation will join a total of 10 American Indian and Alaska Native groups that have been announced so far to appear in the inaugural parade. The parade is one of many inauguration-related activities that will happen Jan. 20 after Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden are sworn in to their new positions. American Indian groups and individuals also plan to have their own inaugural ball and pow wow in Washington, during which they hope to see an appearance by Obama himself.

“I am honored to invite these talented groups and individuals to participate in the inaugural parade,” the incoming president said in a statement. “These organizations embody the best of our nation’s history, diversity and commitment to service. Vice President-elect Biden and I are proud to have them join us in the parade.”

Indigenous groups scheduled to march include members of the Crow Nation of Montana, veteran members of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, the Suurimmanitchuat Eskimo dance group, and members of the Coeur d’Alene and Nez Perce Tribes. The UTTC delegation will feature members from five more tribes, including the Three Affiliated Tribes of Fort Berthold, the Spirit Lake Tribe, the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. UTTC’s participants will include employees and students who have served in the Armed Forces, as well as singers and dancers using traditional hoop drums. David Gipp, president of the institution, also plans to take part in the historic event. He gave an address focused on tribal colleges and Indian issues at the Democratic National Convention in August.

Presidential Inaugural Committee officials said that invitations were extended to the Native groups in keeping with a commitment to hold inaugural events that celebrate the country’s common values and reflect the diversity and history of the nation.

Longfeather, who served in Operation Desert Storm, is not only coordinating UTTC’s participation, he’s also going to be in the parade. “I’ve been trying to wrap my mind around all this,” said Longfeather, who is looking forward to seeing progress on Indian issues under Obama’s leadership. “It’s just such an honor.”

Robert Old Horn, executive assistant to the Crow Nation Chairman Carl Venne, said that tribal members had long been interested in being part of the parade, especially after the Crow’s adopted Obama into the tribe when he visited the reservation on May 19. During that campaign visit, he was given a Crow name, which translates to “One who helps people throughout the land.” Members of the family that adopted Obama were special guests of his at the DNC. Old Horn said that Crow Nation parade participants will ride painted horses single file, while wearing special traditional regalia. “We want to celebrate and support not only the President of the United States of America, but also celebrate with one of our own,” Old Horn said. “We feel very humbled, but also proud that we will be able to come forward with our support.” “The chairman would like to take everybody he can,” Old Horn added. “But we can only take so many, and that’s the hard part.” Twenty-four members are currently scheduled to be part of the Crow contingent.

The Oneida Nation Veterans Color Guard of Wisconsin, which hosted members of the Medal of Honor Association in 2007, plans to feature a five-person group of veteran members marching in the parade. “We’re looking forward to this,” Kerry Metoxen, director of the Oneida Nation veterans department, told local media outlets after learning of the tribe’s invitation to march. “This is great news.”

The parade is open to the public, and will take place down Pennsylvania Avenue following Obama’s swearing-in ceremony on the steps of the Capitol. Tickets are not required to attend the celebration, which will also be televised. More information about attending is available at http://dc.about.com/od/specialevents/a/InaugParade.htm.

Season's Greetings

***The Indian Country Traveler wishes you happy holidays and an abundant New Year***

Photo by ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

Rosebud & Pineridge Christmas Toy Drive

 The  Native American Music Association has been graciously invited by the President of Sicangu Oyate
(Rosebud Sioux Tribe) to join he and his wife in a Christmas Toy Drive for the 7500 children ages 1 thru 18 on their reservation.

 Help Santa find Rosebud and Pineridge and  help the needy children know and share in the true spirit of the holidays.
Join NAMA, the Tribal President & his wife in this direct and gracious effort.

NO GIFT TOO SMALL FOR THE CHILDREN.

Please keep the children in your hearts and minds
this holiday season

Let us know about your local efforts so we may document them and include them in our next Awards Show broadcast

Send Toys To:
Rosebud Sioux Tribe
PO Box 430 (For UPS: 11 Legion Drive)
Rosebud, SD 57570

OR

OST District Coordinator Office
Post Office Box 1796
( For UPS - East Highway 18)
Tero Building Basement
Pine Ridge  SD  57770

All Contributions Welcome

WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

NAMA's Emergency Winter Relief Efforts for Pine Ridge are still underway for the Elders & Disabled on the Pine Ridge Reservation.

It has been great to see the outpouring of help that has come to this community. Thanks for your help!
Reporter from Rapid City Journal, Rapid City, South Dakota

I just wanted to thank you for your assistance, and to let you
know that your labors have already begun to show fruit.
Blessings,
--Russell Masartis
Tree of Life Ministry, Mission, SD

PLEASE PASS THIS INFORMATION ALONG TO YOUR FRIENDS & FAMILY

Photography by: Marilyn Angel Wynn of Nativestock Pictures

Buffalo Big Business

King of the Prairie's. The buffalo, aka bison, was at one time hunted by American Indians. The buffalo managed themselves quite well and the people of many tribes ate pretty darn good. Not only was the meat harvested during a kill, but also hides to make lodges and robes, bones to make tools and the toes and skulls to make ceremonial objects. Buffalo almost became extinct by the white man's lust to kill. Fortunately, Indian tribal nations today farm this majestic beast on reservation lands so that there will continue to be buffalo meat for their elders, new generations and feasts.  With Economic Development being a major boom within Indian communities, marketing the bison meat has turned into a very profitable business. The meat is much more healthy to eat than cow and lower in fat content. For tourists venturing to tribal communities, almost every cafe you will find has a delicious Buffalo Burger on their menu. Who doesn't appreciate the all american food occasionally? Literally speaking folks, the bison burger is historically the 'All American Food'. Any comments on what restaurant serves up the best buffalo burger? My choice is located just outside of the Blackfeet Reservation traveling towards Glacier National Park in Babb Montana. The place is called The Cattle Baron Supper Club. Home of the world's best buffalo steak and burgers. You won't be disappointed. But let us know your favorite spot for a juicy, meaty and healthy bison burger.

Photography by:    Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

First Thanksgiving

The Pilgrims were not in good shape. Nearly half died their first brutal winter. They were without survival skills, lived in dirt covered shelters and there was a shortage of food. They needed help.

What is now known as Connecticut, the Powhatan Indians brought the Pilgrims food, taught them how to hunt, farm the land and shared their ancestral knowledge of medicinal plants. They were also taught to preserve berries, teas and other foods to help them through the cold winter months.

Harvest was a time of sharing. Together, the Wampanoag Indians and the English Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony (what we now know as Plymouth Massachusettes) celebrated the year's bountiful harvest with a feast. 

The First Thanksgiving in the New World. 

 photos by: ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

Blizzard Hits Pine Ridge & Rose Bud Rez Hard

  ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

As you very well know by this blog site, my heart, photographic passion and specialty is within Indian Country. Most recently there has been a devastating blizzard that has created tragic havoc in 2 communities that already have their fair share of challenges. I've been fortunate to visit and photograph Pine Ridge and the Rosebud Reservation twice. Just last year was my most recent trip to South Dakota. After reading the attached news bulletin, I immediately sent a check along with a large box of assorted children's books that relate to Native America. The box was shipped to the He Dog School on the Rosebud Rez. I rarely pass any donation information on like this. However, I feel that this time is an exception.I hope that you too can find something to donate to one of the three relief centers listed within this article. A donation of money, winter coats, gloves, boots and food would greatly be appreciated in this moment of crisis.

Read on for the scoop

Native American Veterans Honored

All photos copyrighted: ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

In many Native American languages, the translation for soldier, warrior, protector and helper are all the same word. Native American people who served in the United States armed services are greatly honored in the American Indian community.

 It is a remarkable fact that Indian people served the United States long before they were even given United States citizenship. In fact, between 1917 and 1918, over 10,000 Native American people enlisted into the armed services to serve in World War I. Although this was the greatest number of enlisted peoples from any one ethnic culture, citizenship (with the right to vote) for Native Americans was not granted until 1924.

According to the Defense Department, as of December 2005, nearly 20,000 Native American/ Alaskan native people are serving in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force. By the end of 2006, there will be an estimated 181,261 Native American veterans, according to the Veteran's Administration. The National Native American Veterans Association estimates that 22 percent of Native Americans 18 years or older are veterans.

In Native American culture, veterans have always held a position of honor. In the days before "discovery", they honored those who protected their tribal members. Today there are many gatherings where veterans - who are the honor guard and carry the flags - lead the opening procession during the Grand Entry.

From serving as scouts and guides in a young Colonial Army to the cold mountains of Afghanistan and hot deserts of Iraq, Native Americans have answered the call.

 All photos copyrighted: ©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock.com

Author Tony Hillerman Dies

http://www.latimes.com/video/?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=3070414

Tony Hillerman, 83, dies; bestselling mystery author provided insight into the native people and culture of the Southwest

Not that I read many of his books but I always have been an admirer of author Tony Hillerman. Like my photography, he began writing contemporary mystery novels set in the Navajo region of the Southwest, in part, he once said, because "they have a fascinating religious philosophy and a lot of good values."

Navajoland is one of my favorite regions to travel and photograph. Being that my husband Doug is in law enforcement may be another critical reason for admiring Hillerman's novels, whose mysteries featured two Navajo tribal policemen and were known for providing insight into the native people and culture of the Southwest.

Beginning with "The Blessing Way," published in 1970 and introducing Lt. Joe Leaphorn of the Navajo Tribal Police, Hillerman wrote 18 novels featuring Leaphorn and the younger officer Jim Chee and set in the sprawling Navajo region of New Mexico, Arizona and Utah.

The longtime Albuquerque resident, whose novels were known for their atmospheric blend of contemporary crime and traditional tribal beliefs and customs, remained something of a critically acclaimed cult favorite until his 1986 novel "Skinwalkers" propelled him onto bestseller lists and his mysteries, including "A Thief of Time," began selling millions of copies.

Hillerman, whose novels have been published in more than 30 languages. In 2005, he received the Los Angeles Times Book Prizes' Robert Kirsch Award for lifetime achievement for having "reinvented the mystery novel as a venue for the exploration and celebration of Native American history, culture and identity."

"I want to write an entertaining book," Hillerman told Newsweek, "and I'd like people to see the strength and dignity of a culture I admire." Wow! my shared feelings and aspirations too. Read on as I could not have said it any better. "It's always troubled me that the American people are so ignorant of these rich Indian cultures," Hillerman once told Publishers Weekly. "I think it's important to show that aspects of ancient Indian ways are still very much alive and are highly germane even to our ways."

In 1987, Hillerman received the "Special Friend of the Dineh" award -- dineh means "the people" in Navajo -- for his "accurate and sensitive portrayal of the strength and dignity of traditional Navajo culture." Hillerman's autobiography, "Seldom Disappointed," was published in 2001. His most recent mystery was "The Shape Shifter," published in 2006.

Many of his books became iconic movies and are available on DVD such as Skinwalkers, A Thief of Time and The Dark Wind. All filmed on location in Navajo Country with Native American actors. He portrays his Native American characters realistically and how the reservation is today. His incredible work and introductory to Indian Country will be sorely missed. Poking around my library this morning that contains over 500 books on Native America, I came across an unread Hillerman book titled "Hunting Badger ". I'm anxious to begin reading it's pages that will take me to the enchanting lands of Navajo Country and it's people.

To the Hillerman Family: Your father was a national treasure. My sympathy for your loss. He was like a key that unlocked the gate, welcoming visitors to experience a vast region of Indian Country. And for his readership... We will always desire just one more Hillerman novel.

November is American Indian Heritage Month

©Marilyn Angel Wynn/Nativestock Pictures

After nearly a century of advocacy, National American Indian Heritage Month was first recognized through joint resolution by Congress in 1990. Now recognized annually, November is a time to learn more about the history and heritage of Native American peoples.

Proudly join our nation in observing American Indian Heritage Month during November. According to the 2000 U.S. Census, there are nearly 2.5 million American Indians in our country. Their rich history speaks to us through the names of our cities, lakes, and rivers; the magnificent ruins of ancient communities; and most important, the lives of the people who retain the cultural, spiritual, linguistic, and kinship bonds that have existed for thousands of years and still continues strong today.

With a collection of over 125,000 pictures solely depicting Native American Indian culture, that represents over 100 tribes, Nativestock Pictures is a website used by people of all ages. Each photograph, whether traditional or contemporary, are accompanied by informative captions.

Will The Real Sacajawea Please Stand Up

             

Years before and during the Lewis & Clark Bi-Centennial, I was very involved with photographing significant locations along this historic trail. Many tribes that were listed in the Lewis & Clark journals such as the Nez Perce, Shoshone, Mandan and Chinook homelands were visited, photographed and oral histories were heard. These handed-down stories of ancestors meeting a large group of strange white men with hair who carried magical firing sticks (rifles) and the young Indian woman who carried her baby the whole journey. Her name is also spelled three different ways ie: Sacajawea, Sakakawea and Sacagawea. Although reliable historic information about this woman is extremely limited, she is the most famous woman in American history. There is really not too much known about her in the history books yet her story is orally told within tribal communities where you will find three different versions, depending on which tribe shares with you her legacy. 'Sacajawea A' story tells of a Shoshone woman kidnapped at a very young age and who is traded by the Mandan to a trader named Charbonneau. After the Corps of Discovery's return she lived only a few more years until a putrid fever caused her death in 1812 at Fort Manuel Trading Post, South Dakota. Sacajawea B has her leaqving her husband and crossing the Plains to be with her people the Lemhi-Shoshone, raising more children, living close to the age of 100 years and passing away in 1884 on the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming. Last but not least is Sacajawea C who's story is that this woman was actually of the Hidatsa (aka Minnetari) who contently remained among her people in the large trading village of earth lodges along the Missouri River in North Dakota until her death, where her body was hidden in the surrounding hills on a traditional burial platform. Although each of these three stories end up uniquely different and have been handed-down from generation to generation for 200 years, I choose to accept all three versions. There are no remains left of Sacajawea and any markers or memorials that have been erected are just that. Merely reminders of this amazing Indian woman's endurance with hardships and survival. Honoring her legacy and acccomplishments is important. The controversy surrounding Sacagawea's life is good because it keeps people interested in her.

   
Click Here for more Sacajawea Pictures

Indians Discovered Columbus

For high school students, it's a day to sleep in. For some Americans, it means a parade. But for American Indians Columbus Day is a time to mourn their losses.

The holiday "Columbus Day" celebrates the explorer who first came to the New World on October 12, 1492. However, archaeological proof shows that the Vikings and Chinese were actually the first "tourists" to visit America decades before Columbus. Maybe the Europeans thought the world flat but the Islamic and Asian scholars knew centuries beforehand that our earth was indeed round. President Franklin Roosevelt set aside October 12th as Columbus Day in 1937. Later, President Richard Nixon declared Columbus Day a national holiday to be celebrated on the second Monday in October.

A national holiday to celebrate genocide, slavery and blood-shed for millions of American Indians? American Indians feel that to celebrate the day when one culture uprooted another is disgraceful. Since the 70's this holiday has been rejected by many people who want the holiday known as "Native America Day" or "Indigenous People Day". Latin American countries call it Dia de la Raza - Day of the Race.

We need a solution of this day's recognition so that the U.S. might move forward from the division and bitterness of the past to a future of mutual respect and historical integrity.

Photo by: Nativestock Pictures

To see more American Indian photos click here.

Making Pemmican

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PEMMICAN Recipe
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 1 buffalo
 16 lbs. choke cherries

Take one buffalo. Skin. Cut the meat in thin strips and
sun-dry on racks (takes several days to dry). When meat is
dry, pound it into a coarse meal. Set aside.

Break and boil bones of buffalo. Skim off fat and extract
the marrow from the bones. Render all fat from buffalo in
cauldron (or in hide-lined pit in ground with hot stones).
Pound choke cherries into coarse meal. Retain seeds and
skins.

When buffalo fat becomes liquified, add meat, fat, and
cherries. Place mixture into bladder or water-tight skin
containers (parfleches) and seal (sew shut).
 
NOTE: This mixture has been know to last for as long as 80
years!

Cheyenne woman using grinding stones to mash meat and berries into pemmican

Oklahoma's American Indian Cultureal Center & Museum

 

New American Indian cultural center and museum continues to take shape and is being constructed right now being built in Oklahoma City along the Oklahoma River. It's a huge project and will be a great example of American Indian culture in Oklahoma that includes over 39 tribes. You can also preview photographs of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Ponca, Caddo, Comanche, Cheyenne, Kiowa, Osage, Pawnee and Wichita tribes by visiting Native Stock Pictures.

Video of American Indian Cultural Center in Oklahoma City

Picture of the Day

Laughing Nez Perce Family                                                                                                  ©Marilyn Angel Wynn

As a photographer, there are thousands of pictures that I'm thrilled to have documented. One of my all time favorites was taken during a trip to the Nez Perce tribe up in Northern Idaho. Each May, Chief Looking Glasses band of Nez Perce honor their youth. A 2-day ceremony, give-away and feast are held to show respect for the young teens who have picked their first berries and roots or have hunted down their first deer or elk. For these young teens it is quite an honor to carry on ancestral tradition. During the event, I was asked by the ceremonial leader to take a picture of his family outside of the plateau style longhouse. The men wrapped colorful Pendleton blankets around their cores just as Indian braves have done for hundreds of years. Like so many other tribes, there's always time for a joke or a funny story. While snapping group portrait shots there was a quick instant where everyone began to roar with laughter. That's when I took the opportunity to shoot several frames. This gem photograph of the Slickpoo family was my favorite shot taken that day at the First Rights ceremony. It shows the real sense of humor that tribal members share among each other.

First Nations, New Generation

Here is a photo slide show that I made in I-movie that showcases Native American children that I've had the opportunity to photograph over the past few years while visiting several tribal communities across Indian Country USA. Enjoy and let me know your comments.

CLICK HERE:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJIe6tNopcE

Turquoise, Gift From The Sky

The color of turquoise is by far my favorite color. There is a saying that if the stone called turquoise is given to you then it brings you luck. Turquoise comes in hundreds of shades of blues and greens such as aqua, sky blue, sea green or robin egg. It also depends on which area or even which mine the stone came from that can be specific in color. This semi precious stone is found throughout the world. However, due to my passion for Native America, this story will embelish on turquoise found around the Southwest of the US. Once a valuable and popular trade item of the Navajo, Zuni and other Pueblo Indians, it continues to be mined today and many Native American artisans use these semi-precious gems in their silversmithing. Tourists visiting the Santa Fe or Phoenix areas can't resist eyeing and trying on the vast assortment of turquoise jewelery which is available in expensive high end stores to affordable fun souvenir bling bling found at trading posts. I try to buy one-of-a-kind pieces from individual artists as much as possible. However, old pawn pieces are hard to resist for being unique, antique and low priced. You can never have enough turquoise or wear it too often. Turquoise jewelery is casual, fashionable and can be worn almost everyday. I have quite a collection of necklaces, squash blossoms, earrings and bracelets. I look for unique pieces that I will appreciate when buying for myself and purchase bargain specimens as gifts. You will get the highest quality when purchasing from silversmiths or artisans. But my favorite place to shop for turquoise with large inventory is in Gallup New Mexico. Found along historic Route 66, there are dozens of Native arts specialty shops all competing for your touristy dollars. Most of these merchants are also wholesalers who can give you some fantastic deals if you are buying several items all at once. Museums offer some nice turquoise jewelery for moderate prices but stay away from gift shops in hotel lobbies. They are higher than airports. Native American vendors along roadsides or with displays at festival markets are affordable and have very reasonable prices.They are trying to make a living so don't dicker on price. Save that for the trading posts. Whatever turquoise you end up purchasing will be a lasting treasure reminding you of your awesome trip to the magical Southwest Region. The Dineh (Navajo) call turquoise a gift from the sky.

         

Color Postcards Of American Indians

Picture postcards are a unique way for photographers to keep their best images in front of Joe Public. I have a line of Native American cards with anywhere from 30-40 pictures. The postcards are available for wholesale and retail purchase on my website. Because of my specialty, these postcards are not stuck in a regional market. They are sold to wholesale vendors throughout the world, country's such as Japan, France and Germany. Most postcard clients range from Indian casino gift shops and museums to trading posts and college's. A few postcard enthusiasts and collectors have placed orders. For these buyers I came up with a package of 20 assorted postcards that sell for $8.95. Each spring my postcard stock is replenished and new designs that have been considered throughout the year are ordered. Choosing the right pictures can be a bit of a gamble. Such as my Lewis & Clark postcards. They sold very well during the Bi-Centennial but now that it's over, sales are way down. It's part of the challenge to see how each image will work on the postcard market. Some images are more popular than others. All in all, my unique specialty photographing Native America, have quite a successful track record in the tourism industry.

New Artwork For 2008!
Mountain Top Vision Quest

Birth Place Of Sacajawea

Encampment With Horse & Travois

Menominee: People of the Wild Rice

Wisconsin...cheese country. Farms, forests, lakes and rivers...A breath of fresh air for this country girl after spending several days in Chicago on business. By renting a car and driving half a day, I arrived in the small town of Kenesha, the seat of the Menominee tribal council. The name "Menominee" comes from the Ojibwe name manoominii, meaning "wild rice people", as wild rice is one of their most important traditional staples. Since the beginning of time, the Menominee people have made the Green Bay area and Upper Michigan their homelands. What is most surprising are the few artifacts on display at various local museums that give a sense of how these people lived in pre-history eras up to the current time. I checked out the Neville Museum in Green Bay and the Milwaukee Public museum...finding some items that showcase Menominee life but not as much as I would have hoped. What artifacts that were available for display such as some baskets, blunt arrows and games were scattered among other tribes that reside in Wisconsin. I mean, these people were here on their homelands during the Clovis Era which is 13,000 years old! Where are the ancient artifacts of pottery, stone tools, traditional trade routes and ancient village sites? All I can guess is that this small nation wants it to be that way. Keeping their inherited traditions and ancestral knowledge for the new generations to come.

FINDING YOUR NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE

“Over a hundred years ago Black Elk had a vision of the time when Indian people would heal from the devastating effects of European migration. In his vision the Sacred Hoop, which had been broken, would be mended in seven generations. The children born into this decade will be the seventh generation”.

FINDING YOUR NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE

There are many people who while not being full blood native Americans do have ancestors that were Indians. If you think that there is any chance that you may have some Native American ancestry in your family it may be worth your while to check it out and find out the truth about your ancestry. There are a variety of reasons people begin to look into the past to find out if the do have Native American ancestry. Some people are interested in the benefits that are available from the government and in being able to become part of a tribe recognized by the government. Other people just want to know about their past and where they came from, along with their family histories and traditions. Others want to verify if a handed down family story, passed from generation to generation that they descended from an Indian, is fact or fiction.

OAXACA MEXICO

Traditional colorful Oaxaca embroidered dress

After 2 months of avoiding winter weather conditions, with a couple of trips to Mexico, I've arrived back to Wynn-D Acres Ranch. I'm happy to be back home with my family that consists of a husband, horses and 3 dogs. There are quite a large amount of new travel pictures to sort through.

Spring should see me very busy with editing. But where am I going to find the time between deadlines, stock agency demands, taxes and the usual daily workflow? The sandy beaches of Oaxaca and fresh fruit seem eons away.

Mojave People

For the past week I've been down here in sunny and warm Arizona photographing the Mojave people on the Colorado River Indian Tribes reservation. The area is host to the Mojave, Chemingo, Navajo and the Hopi. My focus has been mainly with the Mojave people, their pottery, tribal offices and economic development. Located near the town of Parker Arizona right on the Colorado River is their Casino Resort with a boat dock. Will have more to report in the next few days along with some photos.

Hopi Homelands

Last summer I was fortunate to fly down to Flagstaff Arizona, rent a car and drive the scenic route from Tuba City to the historic Hubbel Trading Post near Ganado through the Hopi homelands. Here I hired Bertold .... as my Hopi guide. We met at the Hopi Cultural Center, where I was staying in their lovely quaint lodge. The Hopi have restrictions of where and what you can photograph. My guide made sure that I did not take pictures of anything taboo. Bertold introduced me to kachina carvers, pointed out ancient pictographs on canyon walls and showed me his cornfield during a drought year. Photography was allowed for all these subjects. After my shoot we had a delicious traditional meal of Posole and blue corn Piki bread at the Hopi cafe next to the lodge.
I was touched at how warm, giving and outgoing the Hopi people are to visitors. It's hard to believe that this Hopi society, which has always been so secretive was also one of the most welcoming and outgoing reservations besides a unique culture. Bleak white washed alkaline rocks by day but in the early morning and evening light wow! The valleys and cliff walls come alive with color. I could feel the power and presence of Hopi ancestors as Walpi is one of the oldest continuously lived in communities of North America. The Hopi Reseration is truly one of my favorite locations.

New Years Goal is to Give Away

Each new years, I like to reflect on my past year and see how I can make this next year better. For 2008 I plan to give away more of what I have and earn. In general, Native Americans are very generous and hold several give-aways each year during ceremonies at Potlatches, honorings and even funerals. In white culture, this is a rare thing indeed. On one of my many birthdays I wanted to practice the native tradition of giving. So during a birthday party with a dozen of my girlfriends, instead of receiving presents, I presented them with gifts. Needless to say, they were a bit confused.

Technorati Profile

Honoring New Traditions

Many years have been spent building up my archives and photographing Native American people practicing their tribal traditions. Most recently I've gone on shooting trips to countries overseas to document people such as the Maori in New Zealand. Many of the Native cultures that I photograph, the people are dressed in colorful regalia or in clothing that makes them look as their ancestors would have before European contact. Most recently, photo-researchers are requesting Native American doctors, professionals, everyday people, teenagers acting like teenagers and the list goes on. Photographing mainstream day-in-the-life of today's Native People is just as important as the cultural aspects. For the past year, I've been working on typical everyday lifestyles of tribal members. I call it "Honoring New Traditions".

Tribal Model Search

  As you can tell by viewing my vast collection of pictures, many of the models and talent proudly represent their tribal nation's heritage. I work with Native people who are young, old, talented or not so talented, horsemen, storytellers, families, teen role models, artisans and musicians. I look for regular plain everyday folk living on reservations that are willing to share their lifestyles. Shooting trips are generally planned around festivals, cultural presentations and re-enactments. Repeat requests for specific tribes take preference to where I travel. However, I like to take my chances and stop along the way to visit as many tribal communities.

Quote of the Week

Seasons Greetings

"Carry with you the ancient widsom of the past,
joy in the present moment and
a dream of what is to come."

Photographers: Self Publish Your Book

As a stock photographer, after shooting over 100,000 pictures, I eventually acquired a small collection of images that are consider my absolute best. There are probably no more than 150 of these celluloid diamonds I'm so proud to have captured. These photographs are today what I consider my gallery collection. Many of these 'once in a lifetime' images have never been requested for use by publishers. These photos have been sent out a number of times in submissions to educational publishers. But what gets chosen are my basic mundane "just a shot" kind of pictures. Nothing too moody, romantic or inspiring. Just an image to illustrate their books...pictures with average lighting, colorful and simple. So, I decided 'what the heck' I'll publish my cream of the crop pictures myself. That was three years ago. I never did try to pursue a publisher at all.  

Indian Photographer: Edward S. Curtis

Edward S. Curtis was born in 1869 in the US state of Wisconsin, the son of a preacher who visited his widely scattered flock on day long horse and canoe journeys. The introduction to the great outdoors and the common sight of native American Indians tribes people like the Winnebago and the Chippewas, had a huge influence on the young Curtis. He took up photography at an early age using a home made camera, acquiring knowledge from the text book 'Wilson's photographics'.

In 1890, the battle of wounded Knee took place marking the beginning of the decline of Indian culture - Edward S. Curtis was 21 years old. Around the same time, Curtis lost his father and he decided to move to Seattle to work in a photographic business; it would be a business that he would eventually take over. Although Curtis is best known for his images of The Native American Indian, he was held in high regard as a landscape and high-society photographer. Later in his career he was summoned to the White House to photograph the President's daughter's wedding.

Quote of the Week

"Be good, be kind, help each other.
"Respect the ground, respect the drum, respect each other."
(Abe Conklin, Ponca/Osage, 1926-1995 )

Title: "Shaman Ways" available at Nativestock Gallery

My Favorite Reservations to Visit & Why

NAVAJO NATION, AZ
Number one favorite reservation to visit for me is Navajoland. Window Rock Arizona is where the seat of the Navajo Nation resides. It's like visiting a state capital with Window Rock Monument Park. You can generally hire a guide who will walk you up to the large hole arch created naturally by weather in the sandstone rock. Believe me, hire the guide for safety reasons. On top you will also be witness to a beautiful view that overlooks the village. The Navajo court is a large building that is fashioned after the traditional circular lodges called hogans. Inside you will see outstanding murals and court is generally in session. There are a few hotels that offer nice accommodations, restaurants with traditional foods and internet access. The Navajo Arts Coop is the place to buy your silver jewelery and weavings. The discounts are incredible and the artist makes most of the money...no middle man.

CHEROKEE RESERVATION, NC
My second favorite is Cherokee North Carolina.

Hiring Location Assistants in Your Area

Several times a year I pack up my cameras and head out to various tribal communities. I'm always on the lookout for interesting Native people, ceremonial or festival events, economic development and anything else of interest on reservation lands.
A few target areas and events that I have already put on my list for 2008 are the Seneca of Niagara Falls NY, Mohawk territory in Canada, Ojibwa tribe in the Land of Lakes, Northwest coast Spirit Journey and the Mescalero Apache coming of age ceremony in New Mexico. I'm always open for additional suggestions so if you feel that there is an event or reason that I should come by your area to document then let me know. You could be hired as my photo assistant and paid a day rate for your services. No experience necessary. You only need to be familiar with locations in your neck of the woods plus know tribal members such as artisans, elders, traditionalists and leaders. Maybe some of your family members would like to participate as models? No experience necessary. Let me know why you think that I should come to your area to photograph and it could turn into a future career in location scouting and assisting with other photo shoots and film productions that come to your area. States that I'm interested to find and photograph native communities in are Kansas, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Maine, Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi. But I'm always open to new possibilities and ideas. So if you are interested in working with me on one of my shoots that could be in your area then send me a note . Tell me why you should be hired and why you think that your homelands need documenting. Oh and by the way, you also need to bring a good sense of humor to this job!

Brook's Student Survey

For those of you who do not know, Brooks Photography Institute is one of the top prestigious film schools for teaching professional photography techniques. It is a 2-year course and also has a 3rd-year for a masters degree program. Students, or more realistically their parents, pay a whooping tuition of $100,000. After graduating Brooks Institute, like the world needs more photographers, these eager students are ready to show the world their stuff and flood the photography market looking for the oh so promised high-paying jobs.

The Moment That Changed My Life

It’s hard to believe how a negative can become a positive. But the moment that I consider the pivotal key that changed my life was when I found out that I had cancer 12 years ago. Well, not at that very moment as I actually thought I was going to die. It was after I left the doctor’s office, and knowing my chances for survival were good, I took a real hard look at my life.