Reyna Hernandez, a prominent iHanktonwan D/Nakota painter and muralist, endeavors to challenge the conventional narratives of settler colonialism that pervade the Midwest. Her artistic practice is deeply rooted in the critical examination of authorship and representation in public spaces, seeking to incorporate Native history and contemporary perspectives into the visual dialogue. Through her murals, she utilizes cultural symbolism and storytelling to explore themes of identity, visibility, and the erasure of indigenous experiences. In our conversation, we delve into the significance of her community-based approach to muralism, emphasizing the collaborative process that empowers local voices and fosters meaningful connections within rural communities. Join us as we discuss the transformative potential of public art and the vital role it plays in reshaping societal narratives.

A profound exploration of the intersection between art and community unfolds as we engage with Reyna Hernandez, a talented ihanktonwan Dakota muralist. Through her work, Reyna endeavors to disrupt the conventional narratives of settler colonialism that pervade the Midwest. Her artistic process is intricately tied to an astute examination of authorship and representation, as she seeks to address the visual language that shapes public perception and societal values. In this conversation, she articulates the necessity of incorporating Native histories and contemporary perspectives into public art. Reyna's work is not merely aesthetic; it is a poignant commentary on identity, visibility, and the often-overlooked stories of Native peoples. We delve into her collaborative approach, which emphasizes community engagement and the importance of listening to the voices of those who inhabit the spaces she aims to transform. This episode illuminates the power of art as a vehicle for social change, revealing how murals can serve as conduits for dialogue and understanding within rural communities. Reyna's insights challenge us to reconsider the role of public art in shaping collective memory and identity, making this a compelling episode for anyone interested in the intersections of art, culture, and community activism.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the significance of public art as a medium for community engagement, particularly in rural areas where access to arts programming is limited.
• Reyna Hernandez discusses her artistic process, which prioritizes community input to ensure that murals reflect the values and narratives of local residents.
• The conversation highlights the transformative power of collaboration in art, as it fosters a deeper connection between the artist and the community.
• Hernandez articulates the importance of Indigenous women telling their own stories through art, challenging historical narratives controlled by others.
• The episode addresses the nuances of identity in public art, stressing that art should encompass a variety of experiences rather than conform to singular representations.
• The discussion underscores the need for granting organizations to trust artists, allowing for organic and fluid creative processes that adapt to community needs.

Links referenced in this episode:

• waterers.org
• https://www.reynahernandezart.com
• mural_otw

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Waterers
• University of South Dakota
• Dakota News
• Oscar House Art Institute