wi_mburns_studio_501
Manitowish River Studio, WI
Mary Burns, weaver. Ancestral Women Project: handwoven jacquard portraits
Tinker Schuman - deer toe dress (detail)
From CVA's booklet (Wausau, WI) :
Tinker is deeply respected within the Ojibwe Nation of Lac du Flambeau as a Eagel Staff Carrier, Woman Pipe Carrier, Sweat Lodge Leader, Ogichida Chidewegon (Big Drum) Jingle Dress Dancer and ceremonial Sundancer and Moondancer, a healer, a poet, and an artist.Tinker lives her culture and beliefs, and inspires others to do so as well. She has dedicated her life to the perpetuation of Anishinaabe culture – from core spiritual beliefs and customs to songs, dances, regalia and language. She is a role model for Native women because you can see the Seven Teachings in the way she lives her life:
Wisdom: She has the credibility of a well-respected elder to ensure that all are doing things in a way that is grounded in Anishinaabe culture and values. She is also a keeper of Anishinaabe oral history.
Respect: Tinker is embraced by people of all spiritual faiths because she lives a good-hearted life and respects all peoples’ spiritual pathways, as well as all living beings.
Bravery: Tinker is a protector, defender, and provider. As an Ogichidaakwe (warrior woman), she has stood up for Anishinaabe rights during very difficult times.
Honesty: Tinker is honest with people without causing harm.
Humility:Tinker has generously and compassionately supported others without seeking recognition.
Truth: Tinker speaks her truth, lives her truth, and uses her truth to help others.
Love: Tinker is spiritually grounded and exudes the kind of peace that one attains when they are clear in their love for Creator. She loves others with an open heart, and they in turn love her back.
Tinker’s work as an alcohol and drug abuse counselor has helped many people. She serves on the Board for the Waswaaganing Indian Bowl Living Arts and Cultures Center. She authored the book Reborn in the Sun, co-authored the book The Healing Blanket, and produced a CD All My Relatives. Tinker also organizes Mother Earth Water Walks, teaches the Ojibwe language, and has been the culture coordinator for the Lac du Flambeau elders.
For her portrait, Mary depicted Tinker in her traditional regalia along with the eagle, Eagle Staff, and Pipe in front of Strawberry Island, a sacred site for the Lac du Flambeau Band.
mburnsstudio501USAMidwestWisconsinTextileArtArtistWeaverCraftsWeavingTapestryHandwovenJacquardPortraitNative AmericanWomen
