Jenna Bass
Jenna Bass has only been in Taos for a little over four years; however, her roots are deeply planted here. Bass is a self-taught artist who was exposed to the arts as a child while spending time in her father’s sculpture studio. After looking through more than 2,000 photographs taken by E. I. Couse, Bass chose to respond to a photograph of Ben Lujan amongst aspen trees. Aspen trees are a common motif throughout Bass’s work, because one of her Indian names is “Quaking Aspen.” Bass gravitated towards this picture of Ben Lujan not only because of the trees, but also because she sees a similarity between her uncle and Ben.
Working from a black-and-white image proposed an obstacle for Bass, because the colors worn during ceremonies at Taos Pueblo are very particular. To be accurate, Bass worked with her grandmother, who was born and reared on Taos Pueblo, to figure out the correct colors. Family is one of Bass’ largest inspirations, and it was very meaningful to be able to work with her grandmother on this painting. Bass believes it is important to represent her Native identity and to share aspects of her Native culture with the world.