Pronunciation: Weckuwapasihtit [Wetch-guh-WAH-buh-zee-dehd]

On the Eastern reaches of the occupied territory now referred to as North America, the children of Koluskap call upon ancestral teachings to guide them. Revitalizing cultural practices kept from their elders, Peskotomuhkati young people lead an intergenerational process of healing through the reclamation of athasikuwi-pisun, "tattoo medicine."

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Director Biography

Geo Neptune (Passamaquoddy Tribe) is from Indian Township, Maine, and is a Two-Spirit Master Basketmaker, a Drag Queen, an Activist, and an Educator. Following graduation from Dartmouth College where they earned a theater degree, Geo returned to the Indian Township reservation, where they began to focus heavily on their weaving and developing their own individual artistic style. Experimenting with their family's signature woven flowers mixed with natural elements of twigs and branches, Geo began forming what would eventually be known as their signature sculptural style of whimsical, elegant, traditionally-informed basketmaking. Geo is a vocal advocate for First Nations and Native American sovereignty and was recently elected to the school board in Indian Township, making them the first openly transgender person to be elected to public office in the state of Maine.

Brianna Smith (Passamaquoddy) grew up in Sipayik with a camera in her hand. She is a mother, aunt, friend, youth mentor, and photographer, well-known for capturing memories of her friends, family, and community. She describes her photography work as being heavily influenced by her upbringing and environment and includes subjects that illustrate culture, community, family, risk & protective factors, and resiliency. Her work captures strong, proud indigenous people, while intentionally breaking down negative stereotypes and boxes of what Indigenous people are and what people think they should be. Brianna also works as a Youth and Communications Coordinator for Wabanaki Public Health & Wellness, where she advises Tribal Youth Councils, guiding them to find their voices and empowering them to make positive changes in their communities as well as throughout all of Turtle Island.