“My name is Alissa DeCoteau and I am an Indigenous (Oneida tribe) artist from Georgia. For my entire life, I have felt disconnected from my heritage and avoided mentioning this aspect of my being. I have to thank other incredible Native creators like @notoriouscree @shinanova @nikitaelyse who have reminded me and others that no matter how disconnected you may be, you can always return and embrace your roots. And because you have been disconnected or not raised on the rez, does not make you any less Native.
Creating art, especially wood burning, makes me feel connected to everything. Being able to honor nature and all of our spiritual paths through this medium connects me to the creators of the past, trying our best to represent what we feel from Creator.
I encourage everyone to educate yourselves more on plights against Indigenous and other people of color. Foster empathy and kindness within yourself and pass it to others as often as you can. Take action when and as often as you can!”
