Canku Ota - A Newsletter Celebrating Native America
August 12, 2000 - Issue 16

Sam English, Chippewa

If he could, Sam English would give away all his material things to help Indian people. Sam is just that way. He is a man of immense compassion and sensitivity for those in need. A distinguished contemporary Indian artist, Sam is truly an individual who cares for people, especially "his" Indian people. A self-described "community activist," English's mission in art is to inspire pride, tradition and wellness for Native peoples.

Sam has created several of the poster images for the Indian Nation Conferences sponsored by the Office for Victims of Crime. Each image that he has created and given has been very inspiring. Sam has donated his artistic talents to scores of Indian service organizations for their conferences on domestic violence, alcohol abuse, drug abuse and wellness. The list continues to grow. He also takes time to talk to groups concerning positive self-esteem and escaping the clutches of alcoholism.

Characterized by colorful, elongated figures of Native men and women, English's posters and prints are highly recognized and collected. For more than a decade, his wellness-themed paintings have achieved success in highly competitive markets and galleries.

Using traditional imagery and themes, his figures are adorned with eagle feathers, colors and textures that reflect the richness of Native dress and culture. His proud, hopeful figures soften the subject matter, which sometimes addresses tragic issues faced in Indian communities.

Sam believes that art is the foundation of language. He says, "you can use an art experience to launch a thought." He has used his images to inspire spirituality, family and community.

Sam is an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Chippewa Indians from North Dakota. He makes his home in Albuquerque, New Mexico and has his studio/gallery in Old Town Albuquerque.

Inquiries about Sam's art should be directed to:
Sam English
http://www.samenglish.com/


 

 

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