— October 2021

Illustration

Native American Heritage Month Calendar Illustration

Each year, Gitwit, as a company, crafts and dispatches impeccable Christmas gifts to its clients, consistently infusing them with fascinating and practical items for both clients and internal employees. Among the collaborative efforts of the design team was the creation of a standing wood block calendar—an item designed to serve as a perpetual reminder of Gitwit and perhaps ignite a spark of creativity in the minds of clients as they display it on their desks. 

Our task involved crafting an illustration for each month, and I opted for Native American Heritage Month. This choice wasn't just a personal one connecting to my cultural roots; it was a conscious decision to shed light on an underrepresented celebration, one that has only recently begun to receive the recognition it deserves.

 The inspiration behind my creative direction stemmed from the two sister tribes in my family: Cherokee and Choctaw. Growing up surrounded by the symbolism of both tribes, including Chickasaw symbolism, I aimed to encapsulate that profound connection. Elements such as the Choctaw diamond, the Chickasaw symbol for water, and various other iconography unique to these tribes found their place in my work.

Employing Gitwit's brand colors alongside an expanded palette, I integrated them in a way that resonates with the vibrant and bold designs characteristic of native artists in the southeast. The end result is a harmonious blend of tradition and uniqueness, a testament to the rich cultural tapestry that inspired this creation.

Always seeking new collaborative opportunities.

Hailey Caldwell - Multidisclipinary Designer & Artist based in Tulsa, OK

+4053854277