March 28 - May 11, 2024
“The thematic exploration of Blood Quantum, confronts the complexities of Native identity, sovereignty, and representation, through photography and interviews. I am an enrolled member of the Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan Tribe of Chippewas. My old “Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) card” states I’m ¼ Ojibwe. And although I don’t feel Native enough to represent the voice of my tribe, I do feel qualified to share in the Indigenous dialogue of how the colonial concept of Blood Quantum affects our fractured Native identities. The choice of color portraiture is deliberate. It imbues the project with a contemporary immediacy, pushing against the confines of the historical narrative. In portraying a diverse group of Native Americans, I aim to counter the paper genocide inherent in the concept of Blood Quantum. This act of documenting Natives through visual representation and sharing their personal stories, is a powerful testament to our resilience and self-determination.”
Cressandra Thibodeaux is a bi-racial, award-winning filmmaker, writer, and visual artist with an MFA degree from Columbia University’s prestigious Film program. Her career spans producing, directing, and editing numerous documentaries, short films, a play, and several commercials. Cressandra founded 14 Pews, a microcinema located in an old church in the Houston Heights, in 2010. As the Executive Director of 14 Pews, she has curated 11 art shows highlighting Houston artists and directed several award-winning documentaries on Houston artists. The art shows and cultural events have a strong community engagement component, including collaborations with other artists, activists, academics, and non-profit organizations to foster an inclusive and diverse creative space.”
Reception: March 28, 2024 | 6–8 pm
1907 Sabine Street
Houston, 77007 Texas
Get directions