Painting of an elderly man with long white hair, sitting on a cooler against a brick wall. He is wearing a brown cap, blue jacket, beige pants, and colorful shoes, holding a pipe in his right hand, and clutching a black object in his left hand. There is a green wall section on the right side of the background.

Untitled Painting #12

This portrait by Leonard Peltier captures a native man seated on a trash can, a powerful juxtaposition that speaks to themes of dignity, resilience, and displacement. The subject’s contemplative expression and relaxed posture invite viewers to reflect on the complexities of Indigenous identity and the ongoing struggles faced by Native communities. Through minimalist composition and stark realism, Peltier’s work challenges societal perceptions and underscores the enduring strength of Native peoples in the face of adversity.