Multimedia artist Jackson 2bears aims to preserve and transform Haudenosaunee teachings and stories through his work by finding new ways to keep these teachings and stories alive in the communities. He does this by creating immersive experiences, such as the "Ne:Kahwistará:ken Kanónhsa’kówa í:se Onkwehonwe" project, which is a vivid retelling of the Haudenosaunee creation story16. By using modern technology and collaborating with other community members and Indigenous artists, 2bears helps in the transmission and transformation of these stories, making them a living part of the cultural practice. His work focuses on exploring the creative use of digital technologies to support expressions of Indigenous creative and cultural practices.
Jackson 2bears plans to make the installation more interactive, allowing participants to engage with the experience in their own ways and create multiple versions of the creation story1. He envisions this as creating a living installation, where people can connect and interact with the Haudenosaunee teachings and stories in a more personal and immersive manner.
The Haudenosaunee creation story, as described in the news content, revolves around the Sky Woman who became pregnant and dropped through a hole in the clouds1. As she fell, many animals guided her descent, and she eventually found a place on the turtle's back1. With the help of other water creatures, they lifted the land from the primordial waters to create the earth as we know it today. This creation story has been passed down through oral tradition and is a vital part of the Haudenosaunee cultural heritage.