Aly McKnight: Illustrator for Indigenous Picture Book “Why We Dance”
Many of us can look back on times in our childhood when nothing could make us happier than a good book. These stories would often impart morals and teach us not only how to treat other people, but how to treat ourselves. “Why We Dance” is a picture book that does just that, celebrating an integral part of Indigenous culture as well as teaching native children why they should be proud of their heritage. Written by Deidre Havrelock (Saddle Lake Cree Nation) and illustrated by Aly McKnight (Shoshone-Bannock), this book marks an exciting opportunity for both native and wider audiences to include modern Indigenous storytelling into their reading.
Aly McKnight is an illustrator whose watercolor portraits are a wonder to behold with their vibrant colors and dazzling imagery. Her passion for creativity is easily seen in her work, and her art undoubtedly brings Deidre’s words to life. She Towers was fortunate enough to hear Aly’s story in her own words, and to learn more about her artistic journey.
Can you introduce yourself for us?
(Shoshone) Buhnuh! Ne nanahniha Aly McKnight, ne Shoshone-Bannock, ne artist, illustrator, and bia to one babygirl.
(English) Hello! My name is Aly McKnight, I am Shoshone-Bannock, and I am an artist, illustrator, and mother to one babygirl. I currently live and work out of Utah and travel as much as I can between Nevada and Idaho.
When did you first start drawing? What were some of your early inspirations?
Ne’bia (my mom) has told me that from the time I could pick up a crayon as a toddler I was constantly drawing and coloring. I have always loved drawing feminine characters that have a connection to animals because that was what I saw in my family growing up on a farm in rural Nevada. We also have the best sunrises and sunsets in Nevada (I said what I said haha) and those soft skies filled with color are now translated into many of my paintings.
What sort of mediums do you like to work in?
I love watercolor paired with graphite on paper but am finding that gouache is an interesting painting medium too.
How does your heritage and culture factor into your work?
My heritage and culture is reflected in all of my artwork whether it's my choice of color palette or subject matter there is always intention behind those artistic decisions. Through my art my two biggest goals are to provide 1.) authentic representation and 2.) genuine connection that centers Indigenous peoples. Each painting holds a moment that illuminates the vast beauty of our Indigeneity and the spirit of our community that never fades.
Can you tell us about your work for “Why We Dance”, and what the book is about?
"Why We Dance" is authored by Deidre Havrelock (Saddle Lake Cree Nation) and illustrated by, myself, Aly McKnight (Shoshone-Bannock Tribes). It's a story that centers Native women and youth and the healing, togetherness, and community that comes through Jingle Dance.
What are you most excited about when it comes to the book?
I am excited for the little theys, girls, and boys to see themselves throughout the book and feel their value and see how beautiful our community and traditions are and to be proud of that.
What are you hoping the book does for the Indigenous children who read it, and even for the non-native children who might read it?
The thought that motivated me throughout the creative process for this book was our community and a hope that through this book they can feel truly seen. I tried to ensure that the beauty and strength of our people was portrayed throughout and that a sense of togetherness and welcoming was very prominent. Because I feel like that's what our powwows and dancing is about. I hope that the book is something that will empower and uplift people of all ages and backgrounds.
Do you have any advice for aspiring Indigenous artists?
I recommend creating art whether that’s writing, painting, beading, singing, etc. that you see yourself in and makes you feel something. We as Indigenous people deserve to be seen and heard and when we follow our dreams and choose to share parts of ourselves with the world it can lead to beautiful things so take the leap whether you’re scared or not because in the end it’s worth it.
Where can our readers learn more about you and your work?
My website www.alymcknight.com is where I post updates and even coloring pages I’ve created and is also where I have art prints available of my paintings. And my Instagram @alymcknight is great for those that are looking for videos of my painting process and daily documentation of what I do to balance life as an artist and bia (mother).