Reconnection (2025), Dawn Spears (Narragansett)

The painting illustrates the importance and significance of the 2002 reconnection between New England and Bermuda. It encompasses the layers of our story where our family members were taken, removed from their homeland, and how we were able to be reconnected despite efforts to decimate our culture and kinship. The swirl represents water, time, life, it also includes symbolism that depicts the story of removal, displacement, the feeling of loss and disconnection, and the resolve to overcome and persevere. The moon phases represent time, seasons, tidal shifts, growth, longevity and continuity. The moon, guides us, and provides us with a sense of solace, no matter where we are, we can look up and see something familiar that keeps us grounded.