Featured Artist Mycah Sky Turtle

Finding Identity Through Indigenous Art with Mycah Sky Turtle 

Mycah Sky Turtle is a proud citizen of the Cherokee Nation and an accomplished beadwork artist. Her intricate designs seamlessly blend traditional Cherokee elements with modern, everyday styles. In this interview, Mycah shares her journey of self-discovery, the significance of beadwork in preserving her cultural heritage, and her advice for aspiring indigenous artists. 

Overcoming Challenges to Embrace Identity 

When asked about finding her identity within the indigenous community, Mycah candidly discussed the initial struggles she faced 

"To find my identity within the indigenous community, I first had to jump the hurdle of simply asking the question. I struggled to ask what I did not know out of fear of being taunted, turned away, or even questioned about my own ethnicity." 

It was her mother's encouragement that empowered Mycah to seek answers and information, ultimately leading her to embrace her roots wholeheartedly. 

The Inspiration Behind Beadwork 

Mycah's passion for beadwork was ignited by her mother's creativity and a transformative beadwork class in Tahlequah. She vividly recalls: 

"I've never had a passion hit so hard before, and I'm incredibly thankful to have found it. I've seen beautiful beadwork all my life from the hands of elders, but only then did I realize I could produce the same artwork and one day reach the artistic level I've always admired." 

 The Creative Process and Honoring Cultural Heritage 

For Mycah, the creative process is deeply intertwined with her emotional state and intentions. She emphasizes the importance of creating from a positive mindset, as every thought and feeling is woven into the artwork. 

Through her beadwork, Mycah aims to preserve and honor her Cherokee cultural heritage while inspiring others to learn about indigenous cultures. She elaborates: 

"I hope that by creating my beadwork and passing it on to others, it inspires them to learn about Cherokee culture - or any Indigenous culture - so that we as a people and heritage are not forgotten." 

Striking a Balance: Traditional and Modern Styles 

Mycah's designs strike a harmonious balance between traditional Cherokee elements and modern, everyday styles. She achieves this by incorporating traditional color patterns and motifs while also exploring contemporary designs like daisies, Christmas trees, and watermelons. 

"I love to assure people of ANY culture they are more than welcome to wear indigenous-made goods, so long as they're worn with respect. My family believes our heritage should be shared and appreciated, which I hope to do through my beadwork style." 

Advice for Aspiring Indigenous Artists 

For aspiring indigenous artists struggling to find their identity and place within the community, Mycah's advice echoes her mother's wisdom: 

"Start asking the questions you have until someone answers. As someone who was not raised in tradition, I often feel like an outsider, but it's now up to me to change that. Our community is ready to embrace and teach you; all you must do is start asking the questions. 

She encourages artists to hold onto the art forms that bring them closer to their heritage and explore them fully, recognizing the power in following in their ancestors' footsteps. 

Through her captivating beadwork and unwavering dedication to preserving her cultural legacy, Mycah Sky Turtle serves as an inspiration for indigenous artists worldwide.