590 - Shawna Romero Fricke & Aprill Perkins - Endless Circles
The Endless Circle is a vibrant mural rooted in story, identity, and community. The piece was created through the collaboration of artists Shawna Romero Fricke and Aprill Perkins as part of the Mandan Art Alley Project.
Aprill is a citizen of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation from White Shield, North Dakota. Shawna is Owens Valley Paiute (pie-YOOYT) and Taos Pueblo from Big Pine, California, and has lived in North Dakota for many years. Both come from long lines of artists, carrying forward traditions of storytelling and creative expression through their work. Listen as they tell more of the story behind The Endless Circle.
When we look at The Endless Circle, we see a story carried across the wall in Mandan. This mural centers on spiritual significance, healing, and the interconnectedness of human nature and existence. Every element was placed with intention, each one a part of something larger.
Our focal point was the sacred buffalo. The buffalo design represents renewal and rebirth within pretty much all communities. We believe everybody has a story about rebirth in some way. Renewal and respect are carried throughout the piece, along with the presence of two different worlds, the female and the male.
The composition moves in circular, rhythmic patterns, layered and interconnected. Those endless circles create a sense of continuity, drawing your eye across the wall. Within the design, we incorporated triangle patterns, spirit lines, and the star quilt design. Each of those elements is part of the symbolism woven into the mural.
Traditional regalia is also represented. From dentalium to the more traditional wear of the men and boys, these details reflect identity. The image of families was another focal point for us. Our identity was focused there, in family and community.
This was our first mural, and it was truly a group effort. Friends, family and community members helped with touch-ups and bulk painting, making it something we built together. If there is something we hope people feel when they stand before The Endless Circle, it is connection, and above all, community.
Indigenous art should be everywhere. It’s absolutely beautiful and carries so much meaning that everybody should have the opportunity to experience it. If you want to see more of my work, you can find me on Facebook @shawnaromerofricke. And if you want to see more of my work, you can find me on Facebook @aprillloraineperkins.