Nez Perce Translation: Spirit Circles

Photograph by Russell James. Collaborative art by Jamie Okuma (USA), Sandra Okuma (USA).

James’ photography invokes a stark aloneness, interpreted by Jamie and Sandra as the alienation caused by the dizzying array of life choices afforded modern mankind, and the feelings of helplessness and unhealthy choices that often result. The circles in the painted overlay symbolizes a technique of beadwork used in Plateau and Great Basin American Indian patterning, Spirit Circles. The artists surround the woman with grey spirit circles that offer strength and guidance so that she is no longer alone. The red path they have put down for her to follow. Listen to the spirits that are around you, follow the red road to Discovery, let the Spirit Guides show you the way.