Cassia McLoone (Kiowa & Comanche) was born in Minneapolis, MN and raised in Sioux Falls, SD. She uses her photography to create a space for stories of her family and community. Her work has narratives that relate to identity, mental health/illness, domestic violence, and trauma.

Currently studying at Pacific Northwest College of Art, her practices expanded to working on photographic sculptures and archival images.

My photographic work began as a survival tactic for myself. I center most of my conceptual narratives around the weight of personal and generational trauma that bleeds into each other. My art and the process, are layered with heavy symbolism and intentionality to create conversations. It’s important for me to acknowledge that the camera and photography were/are tools for colonization. I’ve learned so many others share similar experiences, and I want to open that dialog with my art.

I hold a deep respect and gratitude for my community, friends, and family. Aside from my contemporary practices, I have a rooted love for capturing intimate portraits. A moment. An emotion. An experience.