Heidi Brandow

Heidi Brandow (she/her) is a Diné/Kanaka Maoli artist who prioritizes Indigenous perspectives in the creation of ethical and sustainable forms of artistic expression.  

Her multidisciplinary practice, which typically prioritizes painting as a medium, takes influence from architecture and design – with principles such as collaboration, material, and the built environment. For example, several of her paintings incorporate 3-dimensional elements, such as carved wood pieces affixed to their surfaces.

Most recently, Brandow has been drawn to micaceous pottery. Over the past year, she has spent time honing in on micaceous clay as a medium by working with Pueblo elders and learning the fundamentals of working and building with clay.  

In Brandow’s words:

“My art practice is a culmination of honoring our traditional knowledge while exploring new materials, concepts, and approaches to making art. All of this culminates in developing artwork that reasserts Indigenous presence now and in the future.”

While in residence, Heidi will explore 3-dimensional forms through continued engagement with wood carving and clay. Through ongoing counsel from Pueblo peers and access to the IARC pottery collection, she will complete a 3-dimensional micaceous form that resembles the imagery regularly incorporated into her paintings.  

Heidi Brandow will be in residence from June 15 – August 15, 2023.