As an interdisciplinary artist, designer,  educator, and scholar, rooted in the 7 Grandfather teachings—Wisdom, Love, Respect, Bravery, Honesty, Humility, and Truth—my practice thrives at the intersection of materiality, identity, and relationships. within our bodies, communities, and histories. My use of line, color, shape, pattern, and texture, along with digital technologies, moves beyond aesthetics and into language, communicating the deeper stories held within our bodies, communities, and histories. Weaving these elements together, I construct visual and spatial narratives reflecting both the enduring traditions of my Anishinaabe heritage and the evolution of our collective future. I see creation as an act of care, aiming to foster kinship and reciprocity, while healing through connection and strengthening the threads that bind us.

A bit of a unicorn, I am also actively engaged in my scholarly practice, focusing on indigenizing and decolonizing western Euro-centric design practices, paradigms, and pedagogies. I have spoken at a variety of institutions, including Central Saint Martins College of Art, Costume Society of America, United States Institute of Theatre Technology, and published in a variety of publications.

Central to all of my work is a deep exploration of my lived experiences as a mixed blood
Anishnaabe-kwe and an invitation to experience the confluence of healing, social justice,
technology, tradition, and the power of identity. My higher education includes a B.F.A in Theatre from Stephens College, and an M.F.A in Costume Design from San Diego State University.

#beautyismedicine

IG: Valerie St. Pierre Smith