Tribe: Northern Arapaho

Art form: Fiber Art

The artist:

My name is Cherokee Brown, and i am a Northern Arapaho woman born and raised in Wyoming. I am a mother of six beautiful children and grandmother of six beautiful grandchildren. Everything I create comes from love for my family, my community, and the generations that came before me.

My journey as an artist began by watching my grandmother create beauty from anything she had. Her creativity and strength inspired me deeply. I later learned the art of making star quilts from family members and friends, and today I continue that tradition by creating quilts of my own and teaching others within my community.

For me, star quilts are much more than fabric and design. They carry stories, prayers, healing, identity, and connection. They honor our ancestors and remind us of the strength we carry as Native people. I believe art is medicine. It brings people together, creates healthy connections, and helps us heal through shared experience and creativity.

In addition to my work as an artist, I serve as the Executive Director of the Wind River Community Alliance, where I work to uplift Native-led initiatives and support a stronger future for our people and communities.