November is Native American Heritage Month — a time to honor and learn from Indigenous peoples, not as history, but as living communities who continue to shape our shared present and future.
This month, we’re proud to feature Labrador Inuk artist Ella Nathanael Alkiewicz (@ella_alk), a painter, writer, and educator whose work celebrates connection, memory, and place.
Ella’s vibrant piece honors the Indigenous peoples of our region — featuring an Atlantic cod for the Wampanoag in the East, a Wetu for the Hassanamisco Nipmuc in the South, Three Sisters for the Mohican in the West, and a canoe for the Abenaki in the North. Moving through the four directions, the work reminds us that everything is connected — land, water, sustenance, and spirit.
Ella’s practice calls us to listen: to the land, to each other, and to the Indigenous knowledge that continues to guide ways of living in balance. As design professionals, we’re reminded that sustainability is not just about “building green,” but about being in right relationship with the earth and our communities.
Join us for an artist talk with Ella on November 20th, where she’ll speak to her creative process and perspectives on space, identity, and advocacy. (DM us for details!)
You can also see her work at the North American Indian Center of Boston (@naicob91). Please consider using the link in our bio to support NAICOB and the vital work they lead in our community.
