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Nov 20, 2022Liked by Nikita Vanderbyl

Wonderful post. Thank you. While I certainly understand how her words would appropriated (!) by the tourist industry, other interpretations are possible. The word 'mine' can mean 'for me' rather than 'not yours'. I think it is possible to read her words as an expression of belonging per se, without any accompanying feeling of exclusion. To say "I belong here" does not have to mean "And you do not." Not saying this *is* how she felt (I agree, exploration would be useful) only that it is possible.

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Nov 20, 2022Liked by Nikita Vanderbyl

I loved this post and your choice of works to illustrate this artist. I am also moved by O'Keeffe's colours, and her interesting sometimes confronting views of nature. In her work I have always found a spacial sanctuary, a meditative silence bathed in arresting colour and form that make us see differently, resonating with glimpses of an almost esoteric creation in the act and flamboyance of creating. I personally dont think it is necessary to know more about the provenance of chosen objects or the land she walked over in her quest to explore her themes, the paintings are the revelation and speak humbly and with gratitude for their origins. However this suggestion could be explored alongside the awe inspiring landforms of the areas she painted and some sacred tribal stories interwoven to expand one's view and deepen our appreciation of her work.

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