Nice to meet you! Shoozhri' Marissa oozhii. Lower 48 gwihch'jj. Village of Nenana gwats'an ihljj. Shitsii Thomas Joseph Estabrook the 3rd oozhii.
My name is Marissa and I am a 29 year old Indigenous artist in the lower 48. My family is Athabascan, specifically Gwich'in. My grandfather, Joseph Thomas Estabrook the 3rd, was born in the Village of Nenana, and his mother, Clara Gundrum, was born in Circle, Alaska.
I, however, was born in St. Louis, Missouri. 3,000+ miles away from Alaska, the land I know only in story, but hear in my heart. One way I have been able to feel connected even from far away is through art. Beading has really become a source of healing and comfort for me. Connecting through tradition, no matter how far away, is truly invaluable. For the longest time I was hesitant— not sure if it was my place to learn how to bead. But I’m so glad I did. Art is truly a bridge, and learning to bead has helped me connect with my family and cousins in Alaska in ways I never thought before.
I really appreciate anyone who has come along with me on this journey. I truly believe beadwork is what helped me get to Alaska for the first time. I couldn’t have done it without y’all!
