DigeeBooks

A photographic and narrative celebration of contemporary Native American life and cultures, alongside an in-depth examination of issues that Native people face, by celebrated photographer and storyteller Matika Wilbur of the Swinomish and Tulalip Tribes.“This book is too important to miss. It is a vast, sprawling look at who we are as Indigenous people in these United States.”—Tommy Orange (Cheyenne and Arapaho), author of There ThereIn 2012, Matika Wilbur sold everything in her Seattle apartment and set out on a Kickstarter-funded pursuit to visit, engage, and photograph people from what were then the 562 federally recognized Native American Tribal Nations. Over the next decade, she traveled six hundred thousand miles across fifty states—from Seminole country (now known as the Everglades) to Inuit territory (now known as the Bering Sea)—to meet, interview, and photograph hundreds of Indigenous people. The body of work Wilbur created serves to counteract the one-dimensional and archaic stereotypes of Native people in mainstream media and offers justice to the richness, diversity, and lived experiences of Indian Country.The culmination of this decade-long art and storytelling endeavor, Project 562 is a peerless, sweeping, and moving love letter to Indigenous Americans, containing hundreds of stunning portraits and compelling personal narratives of contemporary Native people—all photographed in clothing, poses, and locations of their choosing. Their narratives touch on personal and cultural identity as well as issues of media representation, sovereignty, faith, family, the protection of sacred sites, subsistence living, traditional knowledge-keeping, land stewardship, language preservation, advocacy, education, the arts, and more.A vital contribution from an incomparable artist, Project 562 inspires, educates, and truly changes the way we see Native America.

Embark on a powerful journey through the lens of Matika Wilbur, an acclaimed photographer and storyteller, as she unveils the diverse beauty and resilience of Native America in her book "Project 562: Changing the Way We See Native America".

Through stunning photographs and compelling narratives, Wilbur showcases the strength, resilience, and pride of 562 Native American nations across the United States. With each portrait, she challenges stereotypes and misconceptions, revealing the vibrant cultures, traditions, and contemporary realities of Native peoples.

Project 562 is not just a photographic endeavor; it's a movement of change, aiming to transform the way we perceive and understand Native America. Wilbur's work invites us to recognize the contributions, challenges, and triumphs of Native communities, fostering greater understanding and appreciation.

As you delve into the pages of this remarkable book, you'll witness the stunning landscapes, vibrant ceremonies, and everyday lives of Native Americans. You'll encounter stories of resilience, healing, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Each photograph and narrative carries a profound message, shedding light on the complexities and richness of Native American experiences.

Project 562 is a testament to the power of storytelling and the transformative impact of representation. Through Wilbur's lens, we gain a glimpse into the lives of individuals who have long been marginalized and overlooked. This book is a call to action, urging us to acknowledge the historical and ongoing struggles faced by Native Americans while celebrating their resilience and cultural vibrancy.

As you journey through the pages of "Project 562: Changing the Way We See Native America," you'll be inspired by the strength, beauty, and resilience of Native American communities. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the diversity, history, and contemporary realities of Native America.