Indigenous Fashion and Art with Jessica Harjo

Beyond the Art

Join us for an evocative conversation with the incredibly talented Dr. Jessica Moore Harjo, whose artistry is a profound celebration of her Osage, Pawnee, and Otoe heritage. Growing up in a household rich with the artistic legacy of her father, Ted Moore Jr., Jessica has seamlessly integrated traditional Indigenous motifs and colors into her work. She shares her artistic journey, from high school sketches to her studies in landscape architecture and graphic design, culminating in a distinct style that marries the old with the new. Listen as Jessica delves into the symbolism behind her designs and the unique meaning of her company name, Weomepe, which encapsulates her versatile approach to art and design.

As we navigate through the world of post-traditional Native American art, Jessica offers her insights into the complexities of artistic labeling and its impact on perception. We explore how her creative process unfolds, from initial sketches to polished digital masterpieces using tools like Adobe Illustrator. Jessica also opens up about her experiences in fashion design and jewelry making, and why she chose to step back from Indigenous New York Fashion Week. This chapter highlights the evolving role of technology in modern art and underscores the professional challenges faced by contemporary Native artists.

In the final segment, Jessica discusses the balance between tradition and modernity in Native American fashion and public art. She shares a touching story about her son’s reaction to her art installation at the Oklahoma State Capitol, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous visibility in public spaces. We delve into the broader impact of public art on boosting self-esteem and cultural pride among Native youth. Finally, Jessica reflects on the delicate act of managing her artistic career while staying grounded in family life, and her ongoing efforts to create culturally relevant educational materials for the Osage Nation. Tune in for an episode brimming with wisdom, cultural richness, and artistic inspiration.