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Hattie Tom is a celebration of history, culture, and resilience. This 8.5" x 11" artwork was created using gel plate transfer and acrylic on cardstock, bringing to life the timeless beauty of the studio portrait of delegate Hattie Tom, a young Chiricahua Apache woman. The original photograph, taken at the U.S. Indian Congress of the Trans-Mississippi and International Exposition in Omaha in 1898, captures her strength and dignity. I complemented her image with a palette of leather tans, desert oranges, and earthy tones, evoking the harmony of the land and the spirit of her people. This piece is a tribute to the legacy and stories that continue to inspire us today.
The textures and layers in "Hattie Tom" highlight the interplay between past and present, blending photography and painting to honor an extraordinary woman and her culture. Through this work, I aimed to reflect not only her individuality but also the enduring connection between people and the land they call home. It’s a piece steeped in history yet alive with vibrant energy, meant to spark reflection and conversation about the stories that shape us.