Art Break: A Year in Modern Native Life

There are many noteworthy works in DelArt’s Living Indigenous exhibition. One of them is A Year in Modern Native Life by Rebecca "Little Turtle Who Sees" Jackson-Square. The piece depicts meaningful moments from the artist’s life painted within the scutes of a turtle’s shell. On one scute on the right side, rings symbolize Jackson-Square’s engagement alongside the shape of the state of Delaware, marked with a small heart representing where she lives. On the left side, we see the wedding dress she created, decorated with pink, yellow, and purple details. 

Flowers and spring colors adorn these objects, adding delicate touches that complement the larger theme of the work: Jackson-Square’s relationship with nature. This connection appears through landscapes, animals such as deer, and natural elements including fire, snow, and water. Water forms the background of the piece, emphasizing an element that all living creatures turtle or human, depend on for survival. 

Nature quietly witnesses the moments of our lives. The wind brushes through our hair, rain wets our clothes as we travel from place to place, and the sun shines on gatherings and celebrations. Just as humans depend on the air and resources provided by Mother Nature, we also rely on creativity and art to express ourselves. Without art, the spirit of human creativity would fade, much like plants without sunlight and water. 

For many Indigenous communities, art reflects a deep respect for nature and the land that sustains them. A Year in Modern Native Life reminds viewers that nature remains central to Native life and identity. The ribbon work attached to the artwork further symbolizes a connection to ancestors and traditions. Indigenous artists like Rebecca "Little Turtle Who Sees" Jackson-Square recognize that their identities and creativity are shaped by those who came before them people who lived, created, and shared their knowledge across generations. 

Kayla Thompson 
Museum Educator 

Plan your Del Art visit today to see A Year in Modern Native Life, currently on view. www.delart.org.