This month’s cover art created by Silvermoon Mars LaRose communicates a wealth of cultural and artistic information. It depicts a group of eight women gathered together and leaning into one another in a way that suggests community, support, and caring. The figures are surrounded by intricate patterns that start at their heads, flow down their bodies, and weave the figures together. The flowing patterns provide a sense of movement, rhythm, and liveliness. Sometimes they give the impression of long, luxurious hair; other times it seems the women are wrapped in blankets with swirling black and white motifs. This gathering of women in groups is a theme LaRose returns to frequently.
LaRose, who is a member of the Narragansett Tribe, says, “In my artwork I am interested in creating images of empowerment. I think women are beautiful and their beauty is powerful. I think of women I know and love and try to make pictures that honor them.” She goes on to explain that in her community there are many traditions and teachings about hair. It is important to care for your hair and also to guard it. Cutting off hair was a big part of colonization; a way to deny and destroy Indigenous identity and culture. Therefore, a celebration of hair is empowering.
“First Strawberry” and “Moon Cycles” by Silvermoon Mars LaRose
Blankets also carry a lot of meaning. LaRose says, “To me, blankets convey home and family, warmth, comfort, and protection.” There is a traditional dance called the blanket dance in which a woman shows herself to be ready for family. Often weddings will include imagery of sharing a blanket.
Many of the patterns included in LaRose’s art are sampled from historic basket designs. She says, “This connects me to the art of my ancestors. I have developed as an artist thanks to the encouragement and guidance I’ve received from people in my community. There are so many people making beautiful work. I’m growing in the footsteps of those who have come before me.”
LaRose serves as the assistant director of the Tomaquag Museum, as a member of Rhode Island State Council for the Arts, and as the vice chair for the Avenue Concept. In all her roles, she seeks to support local public art and foster Indigenous empowerment through education, community building, and the sharing of cultural knowledge and traditional arts. “I believe it’s extremely important to continue to learn and share our traditional arts for each generation to receive.
Silvermoon Mars LaRose’s artwork is available for purchase at the Tomaquag Museum gift shop and through Project Antelope. To view more of her work, visit her on Instagram @silvrmoon80.
