Spirit Soar, acrylic, ink and aerosol paint on canvas , 4ft x 5ft, Natalie King, 2023

The painting envisions a harmonious partnership between the woman and the thunderbird, symbolizing the interconnectedness between the human spirit and the natural world. The woman’s outstretched arms reflect a sense of freedom, empowerment. Her braids, long and twisting in the wind, embodying the strength and resilience inherent in Indigenous communities. Braids are not just a hairstyle but a cultural symbol, representing heritage, wisdom, and the interwoven threads of past, present, and future.

The thunderbird, becomes a metaphor for the strength and protection offered by the spirit world. Together, the woman and the thunderbird traverse the skies, navigating between worlds and embracing the boundless possibilities that come with embracing one’s true

Red Dresses, Red Fabric, Red Tapestry, Red Dreams, acrylic, ink and aerosol paint on canvas, 4ft x 5ft , Natalie King, 2023

“Red Dresses, Red Fabric, Red Tapestry, Red Dreams ” is a visual exploration and tribute to the strength, unity, and resilience of Indigenous people, with a particular focus on the somber reality of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two spirit and LGBTQ+ people.

The painting portrays a gathering of Indigenous women, girls, two spirit and 2SLGBTQ+ people donned in striking red dresses, symbolic of the countless sisters who have gone missing or lost their lives. The red dresses serve as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for awareness and justice surrounding this crisis.

Within the composition, the women are gathered inside the body of a larger Indigenous woman figure, embodying the sacred feminine energy that permeates our cultures. This symbolic representation reflects the interconnectedness of all Indigenous people, creating a collective strength that transcends time and space. The use of vibrant colors, intricatepatterns, and cultural symbolism within the painting is a celebration of the richness and diversity of Indigenous cultures. The Two-Spirit perspective weaves through the artwork, embracing the fluidity of identity and challenging conventional norms.

“Red Dresses, Red Fabric, Red Tapestry, Red Dreams ” is a visual narrative that seeks to empower, educate, and provoke contemplation. Through this artistic expression, I invite viewers to engage in a dialogue about the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous women, honoring their resilience and contributing to the collective call for justice and legitimate change.”

Rainbow Reverie, acrylic, ink and aerosol paint on canvas, 4ft x 5ft, Natalie King, 2023

“Rainbow Reverie” seeks to explore the essence of joy and celebration. As a Two-Spirit artist, my work seeks to transcend boundaries and tell stories that resonate with the spirit of cultural pride.

In this painting, the Indigenous figure stands with arms wide open, embodying a welcoming embrace of life’s vibrant experiences. The Fancy Shawl, adorned with ribbons of different colors, forms a cascading rainbow that arches across the canvas. Each ribbon carries the spirit of individuality and community, echoing the diverse beauty within Indigenous cultures and the broader spectrum of gender and sexuality.

The figure’s dress transforms into a pond at the bottom, symbolizing the reflective and nurturing qualities of water. This watery landscape represents the depth of cultural knowledge and the interconnectedness between the self/land. “Rainbow Reverie” is an invitation to revel in the rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures, where the Fancy Shawl Dance becomes a metaphor for life itself. It is a celebration of unwavering spirit that echoes through the laughter and shared experiences of Indigenous people, weaving a vibrant thread into the fabric of the collective.

Seven Generations of Interwoven Wisdom, acrylic, ink and aerosol paint on canvas, 4ft x 5ft, Natalie King, 2023

“Seven Generations of Interwoven Wisdom” is a visual tapestry that weaves together the stories, resilience, and wisdom of seven generations of Indigenous people, set against the cosmic backdrop of thel Turtle’s back. As a Two-Spirit artist, I approach this piece with a reverence for the interconnectedness of all beings and the continuum of knowledge passed through generations. The seven Indigenous figures, standing atop the radiant sun, embody the strength, beauty, and richness of their lineages. Each generation is a testament to the endurance and continuity of Indigenous life, and their collective presence forms a living bridge between the past, present, and future.

Beneath the sun, a turtle carries the weight of history, symbolizing Mother Earth and the foundational wisdom embedded in Anishinaabe culture. From the turtle’s back, vibrant plants emerge, signifying growth, renewal, and the vital connection between humanity and the natural world. In the celestial expanse above, constellations of the Little and Big Dipper twinkle, guiding the way for those navigating the journey of life. Silhouettes of bears, echo stories of strength, protection, and harmony with the cycles of nature.

“Interwoven Wisdom” invites viewers to reflect on the profound intergenerational relationships within our communities, where knowledge is passed down like a sacred torch.Through this artwork, I aim to evoke a sense of pride, connection, and shared responsibility for the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants. May the interwoven threads of wisdom continue to shape and guide us as we journey through the cosmos of our shared experiences.