Artist Spotlight: Faithlyn Seawright
Faithlyn Seawright’s favorite art form to work with is beadwork but she loves to draw, finger weave, and read books on southeastern tribal history and culture.
Faithlyn received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Museum Studies from the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It was here that Faithlyn was encouraged to grow and expand her southeastern influence in her artwork, creating and sharing the stories of Chickasaw people through her beadwork.
While attending school, she developed a drive to expand her abilities to create new pieces, soaking up what she learned and sharing that knowledge in research papers, beadwork, and stories. This is demonstrated through Mahota Textile’s Artist Collection blanket titled The White Dog’s Path.
“When I create a new piece, I try to incorporate Chickasaw iconography, or I draw inspiration from the stories I heard growing up. My parents instilled in me the importance of knowing our Chickasaw culture and how we honor our ancestors with the lives we lead. I try to pass those values on within my artwork.”
The White Dog's Path
The Milky Way was known as Ofi’ Tohbi’ Ihina’ (the White Dog’s road), and is believed to be the path that deceased Chickasaw tribal members use to travel to the other side. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chickasaw Nation suffered the loss of significant tribal elders who were artists, culture bearers, storytellers, language speakers, and song leaders. Through mourning the loss of loved ones, comfort is found, knowing that Ofi’ Tohbi’ Ishto’ was waiting to lead them on into the next world, and reunite them with loved ones that have passed on. The stars honor those that have passed on and visualize their journey as Ofi’ Tohbi’ Ishto’ awaits to accompany our Chickasaw people once again.