Building a Sweat Lodge, c. 1985
Digital photograph on Canon glossy photographic paper, 11 x 14 in, NFS
This young father and son in Whittier, CA sought to build a sweat lodge with friends using willow branches they gathered. Although there are many different types of sweat lodges in Native American culture, they are always a sacred place to pray, meditate, learn and heal. While ceremonial details may vary, the aim is to purify one’s mind, body, spirit and heart. A trained expert conducts the ritual protocol of alternating sessions of heat and cold. It is thought sweat lodges originated in reaction to the corrupting effects the conquering European culture was having on Native culture.