Cheryl’s portrait of Chief Whitecap is composed from a careful study of his features and clothing in three black-and-white photographs from the 1800‘s. Chief Bear and Council, and Dakota Elders conferred with Cheryl guiding the portrait with their advice. Chief Whitecap dons the King George medal offered to the Dakota during the War of 1812, honoring the Dakota’s role and alliance in laying the foundation for Canada. Just as the portrait was being finished, Chief Whitecap’s pipe was rightfully returned to Whitecap Dakota First Nation, and this incredibly significant and personal possession was also returned to its owner’s hands within the painting. The wise, distinguished, spiritual, and enduring visionary leader, Chief Whitecap, is surrounded by traditional Dakota territory, warm and fresh with the beginning of spring, thoughtfully coveting his pipe.
Global News Story: Chief Whitecap Pipe Returned
