John Hitchcock 

ARTIST STATEMENT

Ceremonial (Pow-wow ribbon chair) is a reflection on the past, present and the future of indigeneity. 

The pow-wow chair is a functional object that is commonly used at American Indian dances, celebrations and ceremonies to provide support, comfort, and inclusion. 

The ribbon pow-wow chairs are adorned with bright colorful silk ribbon to signify celebration and survival. Ascending upwards, they transcend beyond a functional chair to a metaphorical presence that represent our indigenous present and future, while looking to our past and the spirit of our people who have guided us. 

Ceremonial honors the perseverance and power of our ancestors and elders. They have given us the tools to survive in this settler colonial society.

It’s about reclaiming indigenous perspectives and space.

We are still here.”