Claxton, Dana (1959-)

Dana Claxton, born in 1959 in Yorkton, is socially committed to her work as a photographer, illustrator, performance artist, film maker, and teacher. Her artistic production is resonant in symbol and addresses issues connected to colonization and identity. Her Lakota Sioux heritage has been a strong inspiration for much of her work. Buffalo Bone China is a piece of Claxton's performance art that incorporates video footage and Claxton smashing fine bone china, made with buffalo bone from the Prairies. Claxton has been the recipient of numerous awards and scholarships from Canada Council and Heritage Canada, and in 1999 she received the Simon Wilson Memorial Trust Scholarship, presented by the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation, for her commitment to Aboriginal film and video.

Carmen Robertson