Horn, Star

An artist can only convey through his or her work the experience they have encountered, confronted, and endured. From an early age I was taught that all life is sacred and that all life is intertwined, with no separation. In the Kanien’keha (Mohawk) language, my name is “Otsisto” (oh-dzis-doh), which in English means “Star”. I am a member of the Bear Clan and grew up learning about the Longhouse, our spiritual, political and social place of gathering. As a Mohawk woman born and raised in Kahnawake, I am influenced by the strong sense of family, community, identity and respect for the land.