Rose B. Simpson; Santa Clara Pueblo, b. 1983; "Maria," 2014; 1985 Chevy El Camino; 117 x 74 x 56 in.; Courtesy of the Artist; © Kate Russell

Hearts of Our People: Under the Hood

Take a peek under the hood of the gleaming 1985 Chevy El Camino named “Maria,” customized by artist Rose B. Simpson and featured in “Hearts of Our People: Native Women Artists” at Mia. Don’t miss your chance to check out the engine this weekend only.

“I wanted to feel, I wanted to wear the car, and be in it, and become it, because I project myself onto vehicles. So, that’s where wanting to build the car, the muscle car, the fast car, the loud car came from, was wanting to feel empowered.” – Rose B. Simpson

“Ultimately, Simpson says that the car (and the accompanying performance piece) came from a desire to create and partake in an ’empowered experience.’ The need to create a work that demonstrates, expresses, emphasizes, and builds up the power of Indigenous women is inspired by sources of historical and contemporary forces of oppression, and also from sources of power — power that is both owned and power that is taken away.” – Dyani White Hawk

Fun facts about “Maria” from the artist, Rose B. Simpson:

She has a 410hp Chevy 350 engine (not original), connected to a Tremec TKO600 transmission with a Hurst shifter.

She has a 4 barrel Holley 650 carb. Dual exhaust, headers.

Her paint is satin Hot Rod Black with Gloss Clear over it (pattern).

“Hearts of Our People: Native Women Artists” is presented by Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community. This exhibition closes on August 18, 2019.

Rose B. Simpson; Santa Clara Pueblo, b. 1983; "Maria," 2014; 1985 Chevy El Camino; 117 x 74 x 56 in.; Courtesy of the Artist; © Kate Russell