Healing the Heart

Plan: This painting depicts a sweat lodge crafted from branches that form the shape of an anatomical heart-the branches are layered and woven together with visible brushstrokes, creating a sense of raw, organic structure. At the center, a vibrant fire burns, casting a warm glow that illuminates the lodge’s interior and spills outward into the night. The night sky is deep and expansive, filled with scattered stars that emphasize the solitude and intensity of this setting.

The heart-shaped lodge symbolizes the release of complex emotions—anger, grief, and turmoil—internalized within members of Indigenous communities that continue to be affected by historical and intergenerational trauma. The fire represents a healing force, guiding individuals in reconnecting with their culture and honoring their inner child’s journey toward peace. This piece conveys a sense of quiet reverence, honoring the strength and healing capacity inherent in cultural traditions.