‘Ember (1)’

Currently at ᎧᎾᏁᏍᎩ ᎤᏂᎿᎥᎢ “Spider Gallery” - Located in the old Cort Mall directly behind the Cherokee Arts Center is the retail Spider Gallery located at 215 S. Muskogee Avenue. The Gallery carries artwork made by Cherokee Artists, many of which are well known and have won numerous awards across the United States. When you purchase from this gallery you are guaranteed that the artists are Federally recognized Cherokee citizens. 918.453.5728 // ARTSCENTER@CHEROKEE.ORG

‘Dilsdohdi’ ᏗᎵᏍᏙᏗ is Cherokee for scissors, the action a particular stocky spider makes with its hind legs to walk on water. She is commonly known as “Water Spider.”

The bronze spider peers from a steel web and base over six feet tall. A red crystal sphere rests in a bronze pot on her back, representing the legendary fire she brought to the mainland.

Dilsdohdi/ᏗᎵᏍᏙᏗ “Water Spider,” though small and “weak” was the only creature who successfully retrieved fire, while other larger “more important” animals failed. Not only do the small accomplish great things, sometimes they are the only ones who can. (8/1/2022 Cherokee Phoenix Article.) (7/16/2022 Peninsula News Article.)

7.4’ tall x 1.5’ wide x 1’ deep

Recently uninstalled from Port Angeles Fine Arts Center

PAFAC Gallery and program director Sarah Jane observed, “Karen Sixkiller's recently-installed 'Ember' succeeds on multiple levels, combining a striking contemporary silhouette with exquisitely sculpted details and a compelling message of Indigenous wisdom, presence, and resilience. Upon close inspection, viewers will discover numerous thoughtful elements such as decorative cutwork in the crowning ring that allow even the smallest viewers to catch an up-close glimpse of the glowing coal in Grandma Spider's basket, and a hidden opening in the spider's body that creates a glowing red shadow when the sculpture is illuminated by midday sun. Both timeless and profoundly timely, 'Ember' offers a vital message about nature, community, and inclusion that will resonate with Indigenous and non-native viewers alike.”

‘Ember’ is the first finished piece of a larger project titled “Empowerment.” This ideal encompasses inclusiveness and through extension community action. Cherokee legends are filled with the understanding that even the smallest or weakest creature can do the most important things; Grandma Spider and Water Beetle are popular examples. These values encourage communities to include those who may seem small or weak and empower them by recognizing their potential. The same could be said for sustainable community action: small actions over time, “weak” citizens or citizen groups can make permanent change; reminiscent of the Margaret Mead quote, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it's the only thing that ever has."

‘First Fire’

10’ Monumental sculpture, sculpted bronze spider, steel pyramid base, ring, 7 spoked web. Commissioned by Cherokee Nation for permanent installation in DT Tahlequah, OK Cultural Pathway.