Shirley Brauker

Colddwater, MI

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I have been an artist for as long as I can remember, first drawing and painting, then on to clay and bronze work. I use personal experiences and my Native American culture to draw my ideas from. I carve stories and patterns into the pots to create the images. Each pot is like a blank canvas. I try to express my heritage on the surface. I have also been blessed with a very special dream showing me a "cut-out" approach that has really become my trademark. I feel very honored and thankful that I was given this dream and try to create works of art that are held in the highest regard for my heritage and also my relationship with family and nature. I combine the artwork and legends of the past with contemporary materials of the present, to keep the "Oral Traditions" alive. Using art is my way of passing on a rich culture to new generations. Moon Bear Pottery is dedicated to the preservation of American Indian art. It reflects the harmony I share with the world I live in. I have a Masters and Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Central Michigan University, and attended the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe. I enjoy giving lectures and workshops to community groups. I incorporate audio visual media to give a balanced experience with the "hands-on" projects. I am a member of the Little River Band of Odawa Indians of Michigan.