Artist Statement

My work is inspired by creating community and reflects the deep connections between people, history, and the environment. As a mixed media and multidimensional artist, I make experiential works that engage, enlighten and educate. My practice is centered on layering both new and old experiences to weave together fresh narratives that speak to the complexities of identity and heritage.

I utilize a variety of mediums—including installations, photography, sculpture, drawing, painting, sound, and performance—as vehicles to explore and balance the themes of transformation, generation, and honor. My aesthetic is inspired by my Indigenous Yamassee Yat’siminoli and African-American cultural heritage, with a strong focus on traditional craft, storytelling, history, and ancient connections to earth and water.

Through my work I strive to build community and create transformative spaces where diverse groups of people can come together, engage, and be inspired through both art and conversation.

As the founder of RedMoon Arts Movement, I’m committed to using art as a tool to build bridges, foster understanding, and revitalize cultural traditions. The Movement serves as a platform for innovative programs and collaborations that elevate Indigenous, African-American, and other underrepresented voices. Through RedMoon Arts Movement, I lead custom educational programs and community initiatives that empower individuals to connect with their heritage, reclaim cultural practices, and explore new pathways for creative expression.

- Dennis RedMoon Darkeem, Multimedia artist, Educator, and Cultural Advocate