The American Indian Cultural District (AICD), with support from Fort Mason Center For Arts & Culture (FMCAC), presents new mural commissions by artists Brittany Burrows and Jewelina Acosta. Depicting vegetation and wildlife from the land and water, the artists highlight the importance of Indigenous knowledge and traditional practices in maintaining ecological balance and human well-being. By recognizing the interconnectedness of all life forms and the importance of preserving biodiversity, their work points to a more harmonious and sustainable future for generations to come.

In We are the Land: Between Earth & Sky, Brittany Burrows highlights the parallels between endangered butterfly species and the struggles of Indigenous communities. Both are deeply connected to the land and face threats to their survival due to various factors, including habitat loss, environmental degradation, and cultural assimilation.

Butterflies hold significant cultural and spiritual significance for many Indigenous peoples around the world. They symbolize transformation, resilience, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Just like the butterfly undergoes metamorphosis to emerge in its final form, Indigenous communities have demonstrated remarkable adaptability and strength in the face of adversity.

The plants depicted in the mural further highlight the importance of Indigenous knowledge and traditional practices in maintaining ecological balance and human well-being. From medicinal uses to crafting essential tools and materials, these plants are integral to Indigenous cultures and livelihoods.

“Land stewardship and sovereignty are indeed crucial for preserving Indigenous ways of life and ensuring the continued thriving of both human and non-human communities. By respecting Indigenous rights to their ancestral lands and supporting their efforts in environmental conservation, we can learn valuable lessons about sustainable living and holistic interconnectedness,” said Burrows. “Through education and advocacy, we can promote greater understanding and appreciation for the intricate relationships between people, nature, and culture. By recognizing the interconnectedness of all life forms and the importance of preserving biodiversity, we can work towards a more harmonious and sustainable future for generations to come.”

About The Artists

Brittany Burrows is Nomlaki-Wintun, born in Chico, CA, who moved to San Francisco at age 11. From a young age, Brittany has always been fascinated with art, mostly ballpoint pen drawings. Brittany is a self-taught artist who specializes in black-and-white portraits. Her mediums are pencil, charcoal, and graphite. She once took an art class in high school and that’s where she discovered her love for portrait drawing. Brittany finds drawing soothing and therapeutic. As soon as she puts her headphones on and blasts her oldies, she’s in her element. Art comes in many forms and whether it be painting, sculpting, or even arranging flowers; Brittany enjoys them all because this allows her to tap into her creative side. Brittany’s biggest inspiration is her nine-year-old son who encourages her to do more with her artwork as well as her community because they believe in her talent. There is nothing more motivating than her child cheering her on, reminding her to share her work!

Jewelina Acosta is from a small non-federally recognized tribe named Yokaia (the deep valley) from which the name Ukiah, CA originated. She is the owner of Inkdigenous Tattoo, which brings forward and makes room for her traditional and cultural lifestyle in the tattoo industry. She uses her artwork to share traditional ecological knowledge with the community, making the world a better place one art piece at a time.