Sarah Lowry

I am Sarah Lowry, a proud citizen of the Lumbee Tribe. I am a senior undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill studying Medical Anthropology with a minor in American Indian and Indigenous Studies. Through my artwork, I strive to portray my deep connection to my family, my culture, and my community. I am also the founder of a small business, Cardinal Creations, where I share my creativity with others as a way to honor and celebrate my beautiful and strong Lumbee heritage and to keep my peoples stories alive that shape who I am today.

With this piece, I imagined the life I might have had as a fancy dancer, inspired by my late uncle Derek, who was deeply involved within our Native community. Cardinals hold sacred meaning and honor my late grandparents, whose love of art continues to guide and inspire me everyday. Each color holds personal meanings and are painted from the memories of my grandparents and my mother, serving as a tribute to their love and guidance. Through this piece, I celebrate my culture, honor my family, and share stories of the people that have shaped me into who I am today.