Artist Bio: Peshawbestown, Michigan native and Suttons Bay Virtual School fifth grader Aydrian James Day artistic talents and love for art began at an early age while mimicking his parent’s James “Bud” and Alexa Rae Day. Raised immersed in his Anishinaabe culture, Aydrian’s art, rather it be beading, quilling, drawing, painting, dancing, singing, storytelling and acting has flourished into his young life’s passion. Aydrian’s art is heavily inspired by and derived from his woodland homelands. Aydrian’s paintings and drawings use colors reflective of the northern lights often seen in the fall and winter months across the most northern hemisphere which also pays homage to his Anishinaabe spirit name “Wasinoday Gezhik “Northern Lights Sky Dancer”. Aydrian an enrolled member of the Hochunk Nation is also Odawa, Ojibwe, Potawatomi and Lakota. Aydrian has traveled across the United States and Canada sharing his art, love of dancing and singing and has visited nearly every state and Canadian providence across Turtle Island. At the young age of ten Aydrian has quickly become known and admired as an award-winning artist taking home top honors in the youth category in several prestigious Indian Art Markets across North America. Most recently, Aydrian was awarded the People Choice Award at the 2020 Santa Fe Virtual Indian Market. Aydrian is an inspiring, talented young artist who wishes to carry on our culture and traditions.
Artist Statement: Flowers communicate feelings and messages. The floral designs in my bag signify giving love, kindness and sincerity to all of mankind. The florals also represent myself and my growth as a person. The vines connect my experiences as I wish to connect to my ancestors before me and the future generations to come. The randomized beads represent my ancestors and the teachings left for me to live by. I strive to be a good ancestor by carrying on the art of our people. Living by the teachings of my ancestors for example, love, respect, humility, bravery, honesty, truth, wisdom, and sharing my art helps me to be a good relative.
