Uŋči

"Uŋči" by Danielle SeeWalker (Húŋkpapȟa Lakȟóta, citizen of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe), 2022
Acrylic on canvas with oil, aerosol + oil stick

"Our uŋčis (grandmas) are our world. They are the sticky tree sap that holds us together. They raise us. Nurture us. Cook our most favorite nourishments. They are the keepers of knowledge and pass down the wisdom we eventually realize how grateful we are to have. Uŋčis offer the type of love no one else can offer. They can also give us that deadly stare that stops us cold in our tracks.

I created this painting in honor of my grandmas. My maternal grandma took me in as a small child and pretty much raised me. She taught me what it meant to be loved and feel protected. She saved me and I honor the relationship we continue to have."

Danielle SeeWalker is the first indigenous woman to have a solo exhibition at the Littleton Museum. Her exhibit, škhé: it is said, ran from July 15 - October 9, 2022, in the Littleton Museum Art Gallery. https://www.museum.littletonco.gov/Exhibits/Past-Exhibits/2022#section-4

The Fine Arts Collection consists of artwork acquired for the City of Littleton's public art collection, or art portfolio. The collection includes permanent installations in City-owned public parks and buildings, as well as a large collection of rotating artworks which are only available for exhibition in City-owned buildings, such as the Littleton Center, Bemis Public Library, Littleton Court House, and the Littleton Museum. Artworks in the Rotating Collection are exhibited for short terms in order to avoid light damage, pest infestation, vandalism, etc., as well as to freshen up public spaces on occasion. When on display, the Rotating Collection artworks are located indoors and may not be accessible during evening or weekend hours.

Owner: City of Littleton
Maintenance Authority: City of Littleton - Fine Arts Board/Littleton Museum