Santa Fe Indian Market is set to kick off this weekend, showcasing a unique fusion of Pueblo pottery designs with Chicano lowrider culture on a 1973 Dodge Dart Sedan. Indigenous artist Jesse Littlebird, hailing from Laguna and Santo Domingo Pueblos, is the mastermind behind this innovative project. KUNM had the opportunity to sit down with Littlebird to delve deeper into his inspiration and vision for this one-of-a-kind creation.
In 2024, Littlebird sold a painting to Jeremiah Bitsui, which provided him with the funds to purchase the Dodge Dart Sedan. As a classic car enthusiast and a painter, Littlebird saw this as an opportunity to explore a new medium and challenge himself creatively. The idea of painting a car was born out of his desire to merge his identity with the rich cultural tapestry of New Mexico. The Dodge Dart, known as the car of the people in its heyday, was carefully chosen for its historical significance and resonance with the community.
Littlebird drew inspiration from various sources, including Keith Haring’s art cars from the 80s, Rose B. Simpson’s El Camino, and Mike Giant’s Pontiac Tempest. These influences, combined with his own artistic vision, culminated in a project that pays homage to multiple cultures while making a bold statement in the realm of painted cars. The result is a rolling piece of pottery that not only turns heads but also sparks conversations and bridges cultural divides.
Despite its eye-catching appearance, Littlebird’s painted car serves a dual purpose. While it brings joy to those who encounter it on the streets, it also serves as a means to fund future projects. Littlebird’s entrepreneurial spirit drives him to invest in his art, gauge public interest, and use the proceeds to support other creative endeavors. The car will be showcased at various events, including Indian Market, the State Fair, and the Tucson Museum of Art, where it will be part of an exhibition on Indigenous transportation.
When asked about his hopes for viewers who come to see the car, Littlebird expressed a desire for people to appreciate the deeper meaning behind Indigenous art and craftsmanship. He hopes that the car serves as a conversation piece that challenges the notion of Indigenous art as purely decorative, highlighting the cultural significance and symbolism behind each design. From rain clouds symbolizing blessings to intricate patterns passed down through generations, every detail on the car tells a story and invites viewers to look beyond the surface.
As the 1973 Dodge Dart Sedan makes its debut at Santa Fe Indian Market, parked outside La Fonda hotel for all to see, it stands as a testament to the power of art to transcend boundaries and unite diverse communities. Littlebird’s creation is not just a painted car; it is a symbol of cultural pride, artistic innovation, and the enduring legacy of Indigenous craftsmanship.