Artist Statement Photography is my vehicle to explore the uniqueness of the world. People often only experience parts of our culture, our artifacts, our art, our dance, often ignoring or unable to see the whole. When we focus on one part, we may not see the dinners, namings, family gatherings, adoptions, births, the changing environments of our tribe. The ground that arises out of the existence of who we are. True awareness is the ability to perceive not only the people but also the "ground." That vast dynamic network of cultural beacons reaching out to guide us through our lives.     These images represent various times and places I have experienced through out my years of using a camera. Photography is my way of defining what it means to be native american. I seek the uniqueness of the individual people, the essence of the moment, and strive to create images that show dignity and hope. These photographs are visual documents of things I have felt and seen that might otherwise escape our understanding.     These images are your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the Native landscape that is drawn from a vision of what makes life unique and sacred. I photograph to remember and respect my Native Ground.