Matrilineal Memory

Matrilineal Memory is an exploration of memory, emotion, and cultural preservation. A solo exhibition of artist Mikaela Shafer (Hopi), it features paintings, poetry, and installation. Through the use of collagraph, dyeing, sewing, and layering on paintings, she intertwines her practice with her culture, drawing inspiration from her Hopi heritage. Shafer’s unique approach incorporates unconventional tools, including dried corn, creating intricate patterns and textures, including works printed on chiffon. Shafer’s work becomes a practice of facing head on memories and processing, grieving, and ultimately healing. Each painting unearths a new memory; each poem serves as a conduit for emotional release.

“Memories are powerful. A smell, a sound, or a flavor can send you spiraling down a rabbit hole of a moment you’ve long forgotten”

—Mikaela Shafer

Mikaela Shafer is an artist, writer, and mother from Olympia, Washington. She is involved in the community as the co-chair of the Olympia Cultural Access Advisory Board. Mikaela is also the founder of Maqa Collective, which supports businesses and artists’ marketing efforts through storytelling and community building. Mikaela’s community-building efforts in Ogden, Utah, were recognized by Weber State University, naming her as one of 100 influential women in the region’s history. She was also honored with the 2023-2024 Native Arts and Culture Fund LIFT award. Learn more at maqacollective.com/art.

Exhibition Run: October 16th-December 13th, 2025
Opening Reception: October 16th, 6-8pm at All My Relations Arts
Artist Talk: November 15th, 2025, 2-3:30pm

For more information on the exhibit, please visit our press release on the news page HERE