DAY 355

PORTRAITS

Spiritual

MARTY PINNECOOSE, NATIVE AMERICAN DANCER

Having been interested in the plight of Native Americans in North America, even before moving to the U.S. and becoming a citizen, I was delighted and honored to receive a commission by Peter Buffett to produce publicity photography for a show he created, called Spirit – The Seventh Fire. The show was finishing rehearsals for a tour across America, culminating in a performance on the Mall in Washington in conjunction with the opening of the brand-new Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian.

During the several days that I photographed, I felt compelled to do justice to the strong, gifted, and proud group of people who brought the show to life. Marty Pinnecoose was one of the key dancers and a driving force behind much of the choreography by Jody Ripplinger. He is featured here in a simple yet dramatic backstage portrait that captures his essence and spirit. We had some good conversations before, during, and after the shows, which shed light on his strength and convictions in life. —SA