Lavish LaWalters

2023
acrylic on canvas 
36 x 36”
 
Melanie La Walter's expansive property is a land of golden grasses. Her kids ride small cycles through the brush, daydreaming in the tree fort, and exploring the family's high tunnel garden tended by their homeschooling fashionista’s. Melanie, builds her home on inherited Sugpiaq lands, gifted by her ancestors, as she passes to her children determined traits, a steady presence, diligently working to ensure supporting their inventive and unique personalities. She allows space for artistic expression resulting in top picks at the school's Harvest Festival. She shares pride in how her oldest two, give time with her youngest. One cherished ritual involves helping the children create mysterious creatures out of food, a tradition that uplifts their spirits. Despite her strength, Melanie's soft-spoken sensitivity is palpable and genuine, evident in the depth of her eyes that seem to hold dynamic stories of generations past, permeating the very atmosphere surrounding her.