Felix Forest

Chernobyl 5

2015

Series: Historical Fiction Chromogenic Print on Kodak Endura Luster Paper All available sizes and editions: 22.5" x 30" 30" x 40" 45" x 60" 56" x 72" 63" x 84" Editions of 3 + 2 Arti...

"Chief" Wyoming, USA 2020 Large: 71" x 96” Edition of 12 Standard: 52" x 69" Edition of 12 This work is sourced directly from the artist. Framed Digital Pigment Print on Archival 315gsm Hahnemuhle Photo Rag Baryta Paper Hand-signed by artist with Certificate of Authenticity Over the last few weeks we have quietly been photographing senior Native Americans against the backdrop of quintessential and emblematic American vistas.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Whilst we will be releasing some of the series in the run up to the Presidential Election, this is not an overtly political statement from us. We know that Native Americans have long had a leaning toward the Democratic Party, but we took this assignment on because it is relevant, not to be political.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ There is wide recognition now that Christopher Columbus did not discover America in 1492 and the events in Minneapolis have accelerated the debate on the possibility of institutionalised racism in the teaching of American history. This is not a discussion we want to fully engage in - as we are ill equipped to add value, but I do want to celebrate some of the tribal elders I have had the fortune to encounter in the last month. Their pride, manners, grace and humility have been humbling. We have made new friends in the North.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ For this project we worked with Chief John Spotted Tail, the great-great-grandson of the fabled Lakota chief Spotted Tail. We spent two days with him in Northern Wyoming and he was so excited to wear the headpiece that only the most senior Native American chiefs like him can wear. His attire was emphatically his decision not ours. Their heritage is integral to their souls.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ The ground in front of Devils Tower...