Rayann Guthrie

Glamorous Kill, 2025

Fabric, wire, stained wood, LED

“Glamorous Kill” represents the feeling of nostalgia, culture, and childish envy. This piece expresses the feelings of growing up in a rural hometown on the hunt for support and glory. My artwork replicates a deer-mount, often used as a trophy and symbol of accomplishment for a kill, as this “kill” provided food and nourishment for my family. Growing up, I was raised on eating venison stew and using deer meat as a source of proteins and nutrients. After achieving a kill, my family would use distribute the meet and keep the deer head as a sign of success and score.

Through the use of wire, wood, and fabric, i replicate a similar traditional style used for celebration in Chinese culture to symbolize admiration and success, as seen in Tianyu Lights Festivals. This piece is a rendition of a combination of cultures and tradition.

Deer heads are a staple of decor for homes in southern states, as they are real deer that the families have hunted for generations. Using my technique, I curate a light installation that brings a soft, celebratory manner, while also representing my pride and love for my family and hometown. Growing up in a small, rural town in East Texas brought inspiration and admiration for what my family has worked so hard for with minimal opportunities. I am encouraged by my culture in Native American traditions to create every piece I indulge with delicacy and remanence, as my parents and family has raised me on.

Through the collision of cultures, I hope my artwork aids the reflections of embracing and expanding through cultural differences and bringing all people together, as that is what America should stand. America is intended to be a blend of culture and pride for people of all origins. I find pride in my traditions and the you, the viewer, should too.