Jordan Sahly

Jordan is a 23-year-old artist originally from Minneapolis, MN and currently based in New Haven, CT. Specializing in beadwork and painting, his creations are inspired by his Eastern Shoshone heritage. Drawing from the landscapes, wildlife, and cultural elements of both his Minnesotan upbringing and his tribal homelands in Wyoming, he seeks to weave together both personal and cultural narratives through his art.

This piece is a matching beadwork set featuring the bodzen [bison]. Bison are sacred to many tribes, but they hold a special place for Newe [the Eastern Shoshone], who are stewarding bison herds in hopes of restoring their dominion over the Great Plains. Both a historical and modern day keystone species for our homelands, the bison are sacred creatures that appear frequently in my work. This piece is my personal ode to the bison who I will proudly represent when wearing this beadwork.