Shameka Gagnier carries bloodlines from Central (Pure’pecha), Africa (Northern and Western), and Europe (Ireland, England, Spain). They are committed to working within those intersections to create and support spaces that center art, food, and nourishment for Black and Indigenous communities. Gagnier is a multimedia artist, working as a wood carver, metalsmith, printmaker, performance artist, music maker, and gardener. Currently they are working with a collective called Black Well Red Thread Collective. Working as an artist mentor is deeply enriching work, the young people bring new perspectives, curiosity, skill, adaptability, and courage. As an educator these engagements continue to shape and enrich Gagnier’s approach to teaching, creating, and connecting