"Little Chief"

Actual Size: Approximately 22x32 inches
Framed Size: 26.5x36.5 inches

This portrait of a young boy—his position known as “Little Chief”—is the second piece in my Black Masking Indians of New Orleans series. Created with merino wool fibers and silk fabric using wet, Nuno, and needle felting techniques, it layers rich textures to capture the brilliance and spirit of this deeply rooted tradition. The Black Masking Indian culture is a living expression of pride, resilience, and artistry, blending African, Native American, and Caribbean influences. Each year, tribes parade in hand-sewn suits adorned with beadsand feathers, celebrating generations of creativity and cultural fusion.