David Bradley is an artist and an activist who has made significant contributions to both the Native art world and campaigns for Native rights. Striving to eradicate the exploitation of Indigenous Americans resulting from stereotyping and prejudices, his artistic aims are indistinguishable from his politics. His artworks carry an imperative message, urging tribal people to reclaim their identities and preserve their culture, whilst simultaneously offering considered reflection of past and present politics surrounding Native Americans today.
To be an artist from the Indian world carries with it certain responsibilities. We have an opportunity to promote Indian truths and at the same time help dispel the myths and stereotypes that are projected upon us. I consider myself an at-large representative and advocate of the Chippewa people and American Indians in general. It is a responsibility which I do not take lightly.
In terms of colour and style, Bradley's work draws together influences from the traditional folk art of Guatemala and murals from Mexico, which he experienced whilst working in the Peace Corp when he lived with Mayan Indians in Central America and the Caribbean. His vivid, light-filled palette imbues his paintings with vibrancy and a sense of enlightened clarity which is complemented by his crisp painterly technique. Further contributing to his distinctive style are his frequent pictorial references to iconic portraits and personalities from Art History which he subverts in order to present a Native perspective.
Bradley creates new, amusing and insightful meanings in the anachronistic combinations of iconic references that span cultures and historical moments. The effect is initially comical and charming, but as the humour subsides so emerges the realisation that these works hold within them a complex web of intersecting narratives addressing contemporary Native issues.