Photos by Gabby Jones

Dennis RedMoon Darkeem

37th Street Mural

2023-2024

Artist Statement

This artwork pays tribute to The Descendants, embracing their ancestral heritage while celebrating the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. Inspired by the rich cultural traditions of East Coast indigenous communities and African American heritage, the piece beautifully blends the Northeastern Coast's wampum belts with the Southern Eastern patchwork.

By combining these diverse traditions, the artwork recognizes the cultural significance they hold, such as the symbolism of wampum belts representing peace, friendship, community, and trade, as well as the patchwork's storytelling, historical, and environmental elements.

My intention is to actively engage, inspire, and educate individuals about the enduring influence of the past, fostering a deeper understanding of its profound connections to the future. This artwork serves as a visual reminder of the wisdom and traditions inherited from our ancestors, guiding us toward a more harmonious and inclusive society.

Using the medicine wheel colors, intricate patterns, and symbolism, this artwork serves as a testament to the resilience and cultural richness of The Descendants, instilling a sense of pride, appreciation, and curiosity in all who encounter it.

Bio

Dennis RedMoon Darkeem is an Artist, Educator, Community, and Cultural Practitioner, Dennis work is centered around creating community and exploring the interconnectedness of people, history, and the environment. His multidimensional artistic practice involves using various mediums such as installations, photography, sculpture, drawing, painting, sound, and performance to create experiential works that engage, enlighten, and educate.

Dennis' approach involves layering new and old experiences to form new narratives, weaving together different elements to tell stories and convey meaning. Drawing inspiration from his Indigenous Yamassee Yat'siminoli and African-American cultural heritage, his aesthetic incorporates traditional craft customs, storytelling, history, and ancient connections to the earth and water.

The core themes in Dennis's work revolve around transformation, generation, and honor. He explores these concepts through the lens of diverse cultural perspectives, creating artworks that invite viewers to reflect, connect, and experience a sense of transformation. By incorporating sound, performance, and immersive installations, His aim is to create transformative spaces where people from different backgrounds can engage, connect, and be inspired.

Community building is an integral part of Dennis' practice. He strives to foster inclusive and transformative spaces where diverse groups of people can come together, engage in dialogue, and be inspired by art. Through his work, he facilitates conversations, encourages interaction, and creates opportunities for people to connect with each other and their cultural heritage.

Dennis's artistic practice is rooted in cultural exploration, storytelling, and creating meaningful connections between people, history, and the environment. By blending traditional customs with contemporary artistic techniques, he aims to create powerful and immersive experiences that honor the past, inspire the present, and shape the future.

www.DennisRedMoonDarkeem.com