Found: Eagle Dancer T-Shirt

 

 

 Photos from ar2fakt site 

Today on Twitter I was informed that @dgtlnvjo (aka Victor Pascual) had just finished a new site ar2fakt.com. When I checked out the gear I was hooked. They have contemporary North West Coast designs on men's t-shirts that range in size from M-3X. Totally dope, totally fresh and in five styles to choose from for only $25. 

Time Traveler premieres on APTN

Jackson (Meegwun Fairbrother) and Niki (Elitsa Bako)

 

Nikki (Elitsa Bako)

Richard Story diects Waawaate Fobister

All photos from Time Traveler's website

Tonight at 10 PM on APTN the new series Time Traveler will premiere with their pilot. The premise is on the fact that it is the journey of a young woman who in an effort to save her dying world, travels back in time from the year 3012 to Toronto 2009, where she enlists the help of a young Aboriginal man. Total Sci-fi drama Indian style. Here is their description from their website:
Lorne Cardinal (Cree) is one of the producers, and Richard Story (Salish/Kanaka) is the writer/director. Waawaate Fobister (Anishinaabe) and Meegwun Fairbrother (Ojibwa) also landed roles in this pilot. I am very excited to see this TV series, it was the first audition that I ever went on in January and I have been anticipating it's airing.

See Related Posts:
-Audition Watch
-Tuning in on Cashing In

Found: Wolf Key Ring

Silver and black handstitched Leather wolf key ring for sale now on Etsy by Love from Hetty and Dave. $26 USD. Totally adorable and very of the moment. Not a werewolf but then that version might have been hairy and scary. I love it.

Concrete Indians

 

 

Waawaate Fobister and TJ Henhawk discussing their photo.

Photos provided by Nadya Kwandibens.

Last Wednesday evening was the opening of Nadya Kwandibens exhibit for her Concrete Indian series at Wychwood Barns. It was a part of the Creator Within events put on by ANDVPA and was in the community gallery. It was a smaller gallery space that was filled up with community members supporting Kwandibens and her exhibit.

There were approximately ten of the photos in her series shown, with about seven subjects and I was blessed enough to be one of them. The five of us in attendance had an opportunity to go up and discuss our collaboration with Kwandibens regarding our contribution to the Concrete Indians series.

Here are my two photographs that were a part of the exhibit. Initially when I heard of the project, where you were to define what it meant to be Native in a city and how would you like to portray that experience, I was unsure. I had lots of great ideas but no one felt quite right for me. I suddenly remembered that I had access to a Mohawk wedding dress from the 1920s. It was a beautiful dress and was so generously given to me to wear for the day. In another ironic twist, this dress belonged to my ex-boyfriend.

Once I thought about the dress I knew exactly what to shoot. I chose to shoot at the busiest intersection in Toronto at the Yonge and Dundas Square to give a real contrast between the old and the new. I had been in fashion school a few years ago and had envisioned this line that came from a Native woman being placed in a modern city transplanted from the mid 19th century and what she would come up with to construct for her clothing. Thus an idea is born. Here I am as that Native woman.

The other part of this idea was that I am usually downtown Toronto hanging out on King Street West out for fancy cocktails or dinner at a beautiful restaurant. No one that meets me in that environment would know that I am Native. I felt like I blended into the multi-cultural mosaic that is Toronto and that the only way people would recognize me as Native is if I somehow emulated their vision of what a native woman looks like (beaded bucksin). So the imagery is a part of those pre-conceived stereutypical constructs that non-Natives place onto all of Native women today. I even overheard someone say while shooting "Look Pocahontas is crossing the street." One of the only ways that I as a Native women living in the city can be recognized as such is to don stereotypical garb that non-Natives can recognize.

 

Nadya Kwandibens and I in front of her work.

 

The Concrete Indian subjects crew with Nods.

Michaela Washburn, Nadya Kwandibens, Waawaate Fobister, Moi, TJ Henhawk, Jessica Yee.

It was the first time Nadya's Concrete Indian series had it's own solo exhibit in  Toronto and it was so timely given the release of the this Magazine piece. Big up to Association for  Native Development in the Performing & Visual Arts (ANDVPA) for making such a night happen.

See related posts:

this Magazine: Turning the Lens on Aboriginal Urbanites with "Concrete Indians"

J'adora Agokwe: Takes home 6 Dora awards

Tales from the Tickle Trunk

 

 8 PM Saturday night. Wychwood Barns Loop Theatre for the performance of Jason Burnstick, and Asani (a part of ANDVPA's Creator Within event). Met some of my friends there and checked out the performances. I walked in this small theater late because I was waiting for a ride to the venue and tried to sneak in quietly. As I dart to a seat I hear "Charli'es here. Hey everyone that is Lisa Charleyboy and I'd like you to meet her, say hi." Jason Burnstick introduces me to the crowd. I wave, oops it does pay to be on time for events. Jason Burnstick's performance was a splendid surprise. It was my first time hearing him perform in an intimate environment and he was stellar.

Then Asani performed which was awesome since I had known one of their songs from a previous SPIRIT Magazine compilation from 2006. They also have a version of Oh Canada which is sung in English, French and Cree that they will be performing on Parliament Hill on Dec. 13th for the Olympic Torch relay. They will be backed by a huge choir so it will be quite a unique experience to take in if you are in Ottawa.

The Milestones crew (except for the Asani trio)

Rachelle posing with Greg Dreaver in from Ottawa. He is probably the most stylish Native man I know.

Check out Dreaver's cuff links.

10 PM. Milestones (John & Richmond) for a nosh and nip. It was totally crowded when we first got there but we were lucky to snag a few booths in the lounge. We broke up the bigger party and six of us decided to head over to Greg's friends party at a Royal York suite. Burns. It turned out we showed up about two hours past the peak of the party and it was winding down to a whisper. So we headed on over to Rachelle's so we could all hang. It was so fantastic having these friends all in one city at the same time (that can be a tough feat sometimes).

The fabulous Meghan Meisters in town from NYC. Me in a hat.

 

R made it over after he finished up a gig. 

1 AM. Rachelle's pad downtown. Our host brought out her bag of tricks and we tried on all sorts of her hats and glasses and scarves. I think that she should seriously buy a vintage chest so we can put everything in there and come over to play Mr. Dressup tickle trunk parties. Way fun!

 

 

Then we got silly and started doing 'Thomas Build-the-Fire' impersonations and it was seriously the highlight of the night.  "You know the only thing more pathetic than Indians on TV? Is Indians watching other Indians on TV."  Over and over again.

this Magazine: Turning the lens on Aboriginal urbanites with "Concrete Indians"

 

In case you haven't heard on Twitter, Facebook, or Email ... I have a profile in the November/December issue of this Magazine. The profile is on Nadya Kwandibens, owner of Redworks Studios, and outstanding Ojibwe photographer. The piece focuses on her 'Concrete Indians' portrait series which explores Indigenous collective identity.

This profile began out of me interviewing Nadya for a Red Cred profile for UNGS and turned into a piece for my feature writing class with Paul Mclaughlin at York University. He then submitted the article to the editor at this Magazine and I was selected to have my article printed.

This is not the first time I have been published but I am so honoured and thankful for this opportunity to be published in a political magazine that I have the utmost respect for. Editors-at-Large at this Magazine include Margaret Atwood, Linda McQuaig and Naomi Klein. Top notch female writers that I look up to for their hard work and their Canadian social criticism.

I am also overjoyed to introduce Nadya Kwandibens to a broader audience, her story is inspiring to people of all communities, cultures, and faiths as it is one of survival. Her hard work in the community and in her photography will prove to propel her further success in her career.

I want to say Sechanalya (thank you in Tsilhqot'in) to all of those who were involved in making this publishing a reality, because it means so much to me and to the Native community at large to have another place for our voice to be heard. The full article is available online here.

Reel Injuns

Photo from the Friedman Archives

Iron Eyes Cody as the "crying Indian" in the 1970s 'Keep America Beautiful' PSA Campaign

Reel Injun was the opening night film of the 10th annual imagineNATIVE Film Festival this year. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend due to deadlines but I heard the film was a hit. The documentary by Cree Director Neil Diamond. "Reel Injun is a retelling of the history of the Hollywood Indian. Embarking on a personal quest to deconstruct the image of the stoic Indian that dotted television screens all over the world," as stated in the imagineNATIVE Film Festival guide.

 

In my media swag bag I received a copy of Point of View, an independent documentary magazine that had a piece called "Going Native" all about Diamond and his doc Reel Injun. The most interesting part of this piece was that Diamond discovered during his research that Iron Eyes Cody of the famous '70s PSA and whom was cast in Native roles from the '30s to the '80s was actually of Sicilian descent.

But wait, it gets better. He was so involved in his own lie to get roles to enhance his on-screen presence that he actually believed that he was what he presented to the world. It just reeks Zelig. So he went on to marry a Native woman, adopt two Native sons (which he raised to respect traditional values of course), and led a life devoted to Native American causes. In 1995 he received an award for his work by the Native American Hollywood community one year before a newspaper exposed his truth about his heritage (he's Sicilian).

With films like Reel Injuns exposing historical, stereotypical depictions of Native people and a history of misrepresentation it is assumed that we would have learned our lessons. Casting non-Natives in Native roles is not good for accurate depictions of Native peoples. Nor is it good for Native actors who struggle to land roles.

Non-Natives pretending to be Native shouldn't be role models, regardless of their charity work for Native peoples if they are living a lie pretending to be something they are not. I don't think deception is a very charming quality to look up to. These modern day Iron Eyes Codys couldn't possibly host receive Native American awards either right? No way, Natives and non-Natives alike would never fall for that old trick again, no matter how much beaded jewelry they wore, now would we? Will the Reel Injun's please stand up?

Thomas Builds-the-Fire (Smoke Signals): "You know the only thing more pathetic than Indians on TV? Is Indians watching other Indians on TV."

Reel Injun promo trailer

(see more on Iron Eyes Cody at 2:18)

Cowichin Creations

 

 

 

Sandra Simone of Haida Shoes has introduced Cowachin Creations by elder Elizabeth Harris on her website Haidashoes.com.

Elizabeth is an elder from Cowachin Nation in Vancouver who has been knitting since she was a teenager as she was taught traditional knitting from her elders. Her designs are now a small collection, but it is sure to grow as demand grows for her works. She will have leggings for sale soon for $35 and as soon as there is a picture example up on the site, I am grabbing a pair to rock with some tights. Can you say cozy?

I love the fingerless mittens as a fashion statement, and they are only $25, I could totally see Nadya Kwandibens rocking them. The baby slippers make an excellent, chic gift also at only $25. And the Peruvian-inspired hat is a great gift for a guy also at only $25. I mean how can you possibly go wrong with supporting an independent, Indigenous artist who cold really benefit from the sales and still manage to keep in your holiday budget?

Sondra has generously donated a web page space to be able to help Elizabeth in providing her family with income in sharing her traditional skills with the world. Further designs can be seen here. If interested in the designs you can order your design to your size and style desired.

Gift Guide for Children

Here is a list of ten gift ideas that are UNGS approved for some glorious gift-giving this holiday season. Enjoy!

1. Powwow Baby Bunting by Pow Wow Baby*. $80 USD.  
*NATIVE Business

How adorable is this little bunting for your little bundle of joy? Great for cold weather and for the pow wow trail.

2. Children Mukluk by Manitobah Mukluk*. $160 CAD.
*NATIVE Business

If I had a little girl, she would be sporting these for the entire winter. I would probably buy outfits to coordinate the boots and she would live in a brown, grey, and pastel wardrobe. Seriously these are adorable and so fashionable. Perfect for getting her started on the right fashionista foot.

3. White Formline Hoodie by Alano Edzerza*. $70 CAD.

*NATIVE Business

Perfect hoodie for the man's little mini-me. A subtle Haida design that will set him apart on the playground or pow wow grounds.

4. Princess of Navajo Barbie by Mattel. $140 USD.

A beautiful commemorative doll that any little (or big) Native girl will love and cherish. You can always keep it for a collector's item to pass on to future generations to enjoy.

5. Chief Joseph Muchacho Blanket by Pendleton Woolen Mills. $64 USD.

This blanket comes in many colour variations so you can customize your order to be just the right version for the precious little bundle in your life.

6. Mr. Smith Rocking Horse by Pendleton Woolen Mills. $269 USD.

So I know I may have overdid it on the Pendleton tip this gift guide season, but this rocking horse was too divine to pass up. I remember my niece begging for one similar to this and in this design it could be a stunning addition to any playroom.

7. "Maria Tallchief: America's Prima Ballerina" by Maria Tallchief* for Puffin USA. $10 CAD.
*NATIVE Author

This children's book chronicles the life in bite-size format of Maria Tallchief, the first American Prima Ballerina who is of Osage descent from Oklahoma. Great to get little girls dreaming of what they can achieve.

8. Whale Rider DVD by Sony Pictures. $11 USD.

Although it was released in 2003, this film is worth looking at again, especially since children at the age to enjoy it (5-12), were not at the right age at it's release. It is a heartwarming Maori film about one girl's journey to rediscovering her culture and her birthright.

9. Rabbit and Bear Paws 'The Voyageurs' by Little Spirit Bear Productions*. $9.95 CAD.

*NATIVE Business

These graphic novels are a hit with kids. I picked up a number of them for my nephews and they adored them. Rabbit and Bear Paws join the Voyageurs to take the Furs from Lake of the Woods to Montreal and experience all the trials and tribulations of the Voyageur life. It is a great way to instill cultural pride and to show a reflection of Native culture in graphic novel pages.

10. Navajo Indian Sterling Silver Baby Rattle by Turquoise Village*. $90 USD
*NATIVE Artists

A take on the silver baby rattles of Tiffany and Birk's fame, but a decadent version with a Native flair. This is a great addition to a baby's collection of gifts that will last a lifetime and a lovely piece the parent's will treasure.

Gift Guide for Him

Here is a list of ten gift ideas that are UNGS approved for some glorious gift-giving this holiday season. Enjoy!

1. Demokratees T-Shirts by Ryan Red Corn*. $17.50 USD
*NATIVE Business

This hip t-shirts are sure to be a hit with the guy on your list from a teenager to in his 30s. He will feel pretty dope sporting these designs to the next Indigenous event he attends. 

2. Shared Spirits Blanket by Pendleton Woolen Mills. $204 USD.

This blanket is a great addition for an older man who everyone in the family loves. Get all the grandchildren to chip in and buy this for your grandfather, or all siblings pitch in for a loved uncle. He will receive it knowing he is treasured.

3. Pendant on Ribbon 'Rebel at Heart' Collection by Thomas Sabo. Price unknown.

I adore this season's Thomas Sabo collection. Seriously go check it out at the nearest retailer. There are raven skull rings and pendants. It is perfect for the Native rapper-type.

4. Plex Brainstorm CD by New Leaf Entertainment*. $14 CAD.

*NATIVE Artist and label

Speaking of Native rappers, here is a totally conscious one who has a straight path and is setting the way for young men everywhere. Oh yeah, plus the album is hype.

5. Smoke Hole Hoodie by Alano Edzerza Designs*. $70 CAD.

*NATIVE Business

Not that I would ever promote anything about a "smoke hole" but this hoodie is very cool and I know my nephew would love it to hang out at high school in. Actually both of my older brothers would probably love it for weekend casual days.

 

6. Rezbomb DVD by Roaring Fire Films. $19.95 USD.

I must confess I haven't watched this flick yet because it has guys movie written all over it. Hence it's appearance on this list. It's a thriller about a Native girl, Harmony, who is in love with a white guy, Scott. It takes place on Pine Ridge Reservation. "Gripping and disturbing ... twist on Romeo and Juliet with a dash of Tarantino" says The Times Colonist. 

 

7. Zuni Leekya Turquoise Nugget & Sterling Silver Ring by Turquoise Village*. $105 USD. *NATIVE made.

 This ring reminds me of the one Tatanka Means has on in the Urban Warrior pic. It is such a standout piece and I think it would look pretty stellar on a lot of Native guys. You could totally bling out your man, Indian style.

8. Chinle Large 26" Suitcase Roller by Pendleton Mills. $175 USD.

Well I have seen this style of suitcase in action and it is quite a piece for the Native guy on-the-go. It looks perfectly suited both on and off the rez and shows his cultural pride wherever his travels might take him.

9.  'War Paint' Tile with Full Metal Jacket cuff by S.T.A.M.P.S. $93 CAD.

How cool is this watch? Okay yes the band does make it geared to a guy in his teens to his thirties (unless he is an über-hipster) but this is just too good not to share.

10. Wolf Design on Converse Hi-Top by Haida Shoes*. $120 USD.

*NATIVE Business

Cool custom Haida art on shoes for just kicking it. This style of shoe is a hot item on the Native scene. I have seen them all over the net but have yet to see one in person. Get a pair for the guy on your list so he can lead the *ahem* wolf pack.

See related post:

Gift Guide for Her