Renowned Native American artist G. Peter Jemison paid a visit to Fairport High School’s Art and DREAM Clubs this week. Works by Mr. Jemison, a member of the Seneca Nation, are shown in galleries around the world. His art is strongly influenced by the concept of “orenda” – what his website defines as “the traditional Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) belief that every living thing and every part of creation contains a spiritual force.” His work in many mediums, including collage, paint, sculpture and video, have been included in solo exhibitions and gallery shows across the U.S. and Europe.

Mr. Jemison spoke to FHS students about functional vessels that have been used throughout history and culture to carry items – everything from baskets to pottery. Many of his most famous works follow this theme, and were created on brown paper bags. As part of his visit to FHS, Mr. Jemison worked with students to create their own works on paper bags.

Mr. Jemison’s visit was organized by the student officers of the FHS Art Club. 

• Click here to see selected works by G. Peter Jemison.