DrawingAcademy

Artwork by Phaylen Yellow Robe

I am now a 24 yr old Native American from the pits of Montana. I grew up in a town not of any where on the map, busby, Mt is my Hometown. Growing up I never knew any other place existed because that’s what I was led to believe. Living in such a small place I did what I could to get around, to get by. Alcohol & drugs were the main thing going around, the only thing at the time to help people escape the harsh truth of where we lived. I’ve done many things I’m not proud of. I didn’t know my mom or dad at all. My grandparents had led me to believe that they were my only real parents. Truth be told I’d rather believe that lie. At the age of 10 I first met my mom, first gained knowledge that my dad would not be in the picture. She took me away to a far city where I rebelled every chance I got. Endless arguments & battles with my mom’s alcoholism led me to stay outside more than inside. I’d rather survive on the streets than come home and have to survive the harsh reality of what was left of my mom …

Artwork by Natalie Head

I’ve always known I wanted to be an artist. I am primarily self-taught, with the exception of invaluable input from my father who is himself an artist, and participation in classes and a workshop at Killaby Art School and Studio in Lindale, Texas, under the wonderful artists Maureen Killaby and Qiang Huang. I am always seeking affordable opportunities to advance my learning and understanding, and gain new skills.

I have tackled many types and sizes of art projects over the years that have seemed to be beyond my abilities, but have managed to complete them satisfactorily. However, I sometimes feel that due to my lack of skills in certain areas, I am forced to settle with art that faintly resembles my original ideas…