Title: Making a Commitment 

Artist: Gallery Visitors 
Medium: Beaded Structure

 

Making a Commitment string for our sculpture involves nurturing better relationships. It signifies a dedication to decolonization and seeking self-improvement before positively impacting our communities.

Step 1: Retrieve a black string from the wall.

Step 2: Tie a knot at the bottom of your string, symbolizing your ancestors and those who came before you.

Step 3: Choose a black circle to symbolize our Mother Earth.

Step 4: Select a red bead, followed by a yellow bead (Step 5), then a black bead (Step 6), and finally, add a white bead (Step 7)—these colors represent the medicine circle.

Step 8: Take a triangle piece from the wall to symbolize our holistic health.

Step 9: Use one gold bead to represent the significant people in your lives.

Step 10: Use one silver bead for notable events in your life.

Step 11: Utilize a rectangular piece to signify our support system.

Step 12: Assign a clear bead to represent this project.

Step 13: Add a black bead to symbolize yourself.

Before tying your commitment string, express gratitude to the sacred medicines in the four bowls: sage, tobacco, sweetgrass, and cedar, for providing us with the strength to make space for these vital conversations.

Step 14: Ensure that all colored beads are included in the image, totaling 8 beads in all. Of these, 7 can symbolize the Seven Grandfather Teachings (Love, Respect, Truth, Wisdom, Honesty, Bravery, and Humility), while an additional bead signifies yourself, bringing the total to 8 beads. Additionally, there should be three leather pieces and 2 knots present.

Step 15: Finally, tie off your string onto the sculpture, demonstrating your commitment to understanding decolonization and actively participating in the dialogue.