In recognition of Native American Heritage month,  writer and award-winning artist SD Youngwolf will be bringing to the Historic Ute Theatre stage both traditional and contemporary stories from Cherokee and native traditions of the world.

SD Youngwolf is the winner of the19th annual New Voices Award (2018) by Lee and Low Books. His picture book manuscript, The Echo People, is the story of two children who go on a special journey with their grandfather and, through their different experiences, learn how we create our own realities through the words and actions we give to the world.

 His creativity is inspired by traditional indigenous stories and history and the values cherished and passed on to the young people of each generation, to guide and enrich their lives. Regarding his art,  Youngwolf says, “I believe that one of our greatest gifts is the creative imagination, and it is the most important part of my artistic explorations. As an artist, I have been greatly influenced by my Cherokee heritage, my immersion in Indigenous culture, and world travels. My major mediums are oil painting, pastel, gourd art, and mask making. I have shown and won numerous awards at Native American art shows across the country, including the Grand Heritage Award from the Five Civilized Tribes Museum in Muskogee, Oklahoma. My hope is that my art will speak to the viewer’s sense of wonder and connection with Earth and Spirit.”   

Selected pieces of Youngwolf's art in various media will be on display and for sale in the lobby.