CREATIVES Indigenous artist brings his artistic philosophy to campus

By Katherine Borsting @katbor2025

Art is a form of storytelling, and it is able to convey information the spoken word often cannot. It is commonly left to the viewer to decide what emotions to feel or what questions to ask. Many use art as a form of spreading messages about injustice and shedding light on forgotten history. One of these artists is Nicholas Galanin.

Jan. 24, Galanin, a Tlingit and Unangax artist, gave a talk at the Lory Student Center as a part of the Scott Artist Series hosted by Colorado State University. e event was in collaboration with the Native American Cultural Center and the department of art and art history.

e artist was also present for the unveiling of a mural he helped design on the CSU Visual Arts Building.

Galanin uses his art as a form of expression and representation to display his roots and remind us of the injustices Indigenous tribes and peoples face. Galanin graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in jewelry design from London Guildhall University as well as a Master of Fine Arts in Indigenous visual arts from Massey University in New Zealand, according to CSU’s art and art history website.

During the artist talk, Galanin displayed a variety of pieces from his collection and elaborated on the meaning of each one.

Galanin incorporates a variety of media in order to push his viewers to feel, think and challenge the past of Indigenous culture. ese media include, but aren’t limited to: woodwork, sculpture, videography and photography.

SAMANTHA O’BRIEN CSU SOPHOMORE

Galinin’s work has been and can be found in a wide range of places, such as Palm Springs Art Museum in California, e Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and Hyde Park in Sydney, Australia.

As Galanin’s work has spread internationally, he recognized it can put limits on the Indigenous people for whom the art is meant. He made a note that the distance of travel is often not possible and may restrict them from viewership.

“By placing these works so far, it limits the availability of Indigenous to come see them and experience the meanings,” Galanin said.

Many who attended the artist talk felt moved by the work Galanin has created and that it was paying tribute to topics often not discussed.

Samantha O’Brien, a sophomore at CSU, attended the event and was eager to learn more about the work displayed.

“Art grabs people’s attention, and because of that, I think it is important we see work that is both appealing to look at as well as informs the viewer about crucial topics,” O’Brien said.

Galanin ended his artist talk with a question-and-answer section, where he discussed how he enjoys using modern methods despite his art illustrating pieces of history.

“To make my woodwork, I use a chainsaw, of course; however, I feel that does not take away from what it means,” Galanin said in response to being asked if he uses traditional methods in his craft.

Galanin’s art can be found on his website galan.in or his Instagram @nicholasgalanin.

Reach Katherine Borsting at entertainment@collegian.com.

Dear stars,

The new moon Jan. 21 has welcomed us to the age of Aquarius. Ruled by the innovative planet Uranus, you will find yourself socializing with large groups and putting extra love into creative projects. Now is the time to embrace your uniqueness and march to the beat of your own drum. If you have been feeling lost, you will receive a wake-up call when the sun creates a sextile with Jupiter Jan. 24. There is a high chance for manifestations to come true at this time.

Best wishes, A Sagittarius Moon

Weekly Horoscope

By Abby Flores

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (01/26/23)

ARIES (MARCH 21 - APRIL 19)

You are a great multitasker, but the recent new moon has been encouraging you to ground yourself. You need time to take a deep breath so you can reflect on your life and the relationships you want to develop. Remember that balance is key.

TAURUS (APRIL 20 - MAY 20)

You have fewer things on your to-do list this year (that is your cue for a sigh of relief). You worked hard last year, and the universe is granting you more time at home. You will thrive when it comes to cooking and making your space more beautiful. Friends will soon visit you and enjoy your company.

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUNE 20)

Fate is on your side this week, Gemini. The universe is guiding you toward something new to do. It could be joining a club or picking up a different hobby. Whatever it is, enjoy being in the moment because it is part of the healing process.

CANCER (JUNE 21 - JULY 22)

Being home is one of your joys, but you have been stepping out of your comfort zone lately. You will find yourself being surrounded by nature more. When you do this, you will likely have many spiritual revelations.

LEO (JULY 23 - AUG. 22)

You are the life of the party. Everyone enjoys being surrounded by your energy, but sometimes this can get draining. Listen to your emotions this week and take restful naps because you need sunshine too.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEPT. 22)

You may be nervous about taking on a new career opportunity because you have been wishing for one for years. Being extroverted is sometimes difficult for you, Virgo, but don’t let that stop you. It’s your time to shine.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23 - OCT. 22)

Your open mind and curiosity are bringing you abundance this week. You have been more motivated as a result of finding happiness within small moments in your life.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

You have some secret admirers, and people are looking toward your aura often. You are radiating confidence because you have truly worked on your root chakra, which is the energy that helps you stay grounded.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21)

You are magic, Sagittarius. You see life in the most beautiful way, and people admire you for it. This week will be focused on getting work done, but because the present is always a journey in your world, you are bound to connect the pieces of something you have been searching for.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19)

Sometimes it feels like you are living the same routine, but that is not how it will be during the coming weeks. Prepare to be surrounded by friends and new experiences that are sure to keep you on your toes.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18)

Happy birthday! You are aligned with the universe, and your gift is going to come in the form of finding your life purpose and reconnecting with someone after spending time apart. Your material abundance is destined to grow at this time.

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MARCH 20)

When it comes to work, you can often get overwhelmed because you love to daydream. Instead of forcing yourself to operate long, strenuous hours, try to schedule out a routine and find when you feel the most productive. You got this, Pisces.