Jeremy Dennis
Shinnecock Indian Nation, Southampton, NY
Website
www.jeremynative.com
Social Media
Instagram
Ma’s House
Website
Instagram
How would you describe your work?
I describe my work as being rooted in storytelling, identity, and cultural preservation. I focus on using photography and multimedia to highlight Native American history, particularly from a Shinnecock perspective. My art often explores the relationships between land, memory, and the visibility of Indigenous people. Through projects like On This Site and Rise, I aim to shed light on sacred sites and Native narratives that are often undertold or erased.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by my community, the land of Shinnecock, and the stories of my ancestors. I also draw inspiration from the resilience of Indigenous people throughout history. The idea of preserving cultural memory and ensuring that future generations understand our presence, our struggles, and our contributions to society drives much of my work. It’s about creating relevancy for these stories in contemporary times.
Can you speak about your process?
My process often begins with research and spending time on the land. Whether I’m photographing a site for On This Site or working on a new series, I like to immerse myself in the historical and personal significance of a place. I also work digitally, utilizing 360-degree photography, video, and mapping to create an immersive experience for viewers. Collaboration with other Indigenous artists and community members is important in shaping the narrative and the visual story I aim to tell.
How did you become interested in art?
I became interested in art at a young age, growing up on the Shinnecock Reservation. I was always drawn to visual storytelling, whether through photography, drawing, or video. As I got older, I realized that art could be a powerful tool for activism and education, especially when it comes to representing Indigenous voices. I began to use art as a way to explore my identity and connect with my heritage, and that’s when I truly embraced it as my life’s work.
Do you have any favorite artists, movies, books, or quotes?
I also enjoy the work of contemporary Indigenous artists like Cannupa Hanska Luger and Kent Monkman, who challenge mainstream depictions of Native peoples. As for movies, I find films that explore identity, like Smoke Signals, to be powerful and resonant.
What advice do you have for younger artists?
My advice for younger artists is to stay true to who you are and the stories that matter to you. Don’t be afraid to explore your cultural heritage and let it guide your creative process. Art can be an incredibly powerful tool for change, and there’s strength in using your voice to address issues that are close to your heart. Keep learning, keep experimenting, and never stop telling your story.
Any more thoughts about art, creativity, or anything else you would like to share?
I think it’s important for people to recognize that art isn’t just a form of expression, but a form of survival and preservation, especially for Indigenous communities. Through art, we preserve our histories, challenge misconceptions, and reclaim our narratives. Creativity, for me, is about making connections—between past and present, between land and identity, and between people. I hope that my work can inspire others to see the world through a different lens, and to understand the importance of cultural memory in shaping our future.
