Hiilang Jaat, 2005, mixed media on wool melton, 54.75 x 60.75 in.

Hazel Wilson (1941 – 2016, Old Massett)

Hiilang Jaat, 2005

mixed media on wool melton, 54.75 x 60.75 in.

 

Her expression is solemn because she is remembering the smallpox that devastated her people. Her top is dark to reflect her sombre mood. The designs in her hair symbolize the lightning that would one day strike her down.

She wears a piece of beadwork that belonged to my mother. I always include a piece from my mother’s collection when portraying Hiilang Jaat.