Oona Benally

19, Navajo Nation  

My painting features many designs that come together to make a full picture. The focal point is a Navajo girl. I wanted to represent the modern native girl, so I drew her in traditional attire but updated in bright colors and designs. I was also inspired by colors and designs in the sky and mesas, and I tried to revitalize their beauty and uniqueness using abstract patterns and designs full of color. This is what I hope to see for the future; our traditions and culture being revitalized in our modern times. Keeping our traditions alive but using new mediums.