New Art Installation by Native Artist Opens at Harvard's Smith Center

On December 4th, Ma Tallepo 'Opu Ma 'Akkala Kennetto/We Are Waking Up Our Story Together was officially opened at the Smith Center on Harvard's campus. Artist Michelle Napoli (Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria - Coast Miwok and Southern Pomo) was present at the opening reception and hopes the hallway becomes a space for all to share their stories and for it to be a collective experience for many.

Comprised of 25 original pieces and spanning over two decades, the installation will live on the sixth floor of the Smith Center for the next three years. At times intensely personal and revealing, each piece in the hallway marks different moments, feelings and captures the contemporary ways Indigenous people live and respond to society. Additionally, it captures the notion of healing as a journey and intends for the audience to also reflect on their own personal journeys through healing and vulnerability.

Special thanks to the efforts and collaboration between Harvard University Health Services (HUHS), the Office of Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (OSAPR) and the Harvard University Native American Program.

(l to r) Artist Michelle Napoli, HUNAP Executive Director Shelly Lowe, and OSAPR Director Pierre Berastain