Kiitokii BIOGRAPHY

 

A Blackfoot horse capture or horse stealing scene on a pictographic buffalo robe would be painted to record a personal act of bravery and success in warfare. Among the Blackfoot (Siksikaitsitapi), capturing horses from an enemy camp was considered a high honor, often as important as counting coup. Horses represented wealth, mobility, and prestige, so a successful raid was worthy of being recorded on a robe.

Kiitokii is a Blackfoot artist from the Piikani Nation. Kiitokii’s media includes painting, beading and textile. His art is influenced by his Blackfoot and Lakota cultural heritage as well as his friend and mentor Dr.Dale Auger. He began creating his art as a teen, sewing his first grass dance outfit with instruction from his family and friends. His passion soon progressed to leather work, creating traditional regalia such as Blackfoot war shirts, dance outfits and tools. He then shifted his focus to painting which gives him the ability to share stories of his cultural identity and knowledge as he explores themes centered around traditional Blackfoot life, culture, songs and dance. Currently, all created artwork is done by commission, designing art with the client’s vision in mind.

Captured Wealth, 2026, bison hide, ochre, charcoal, acrylic paint.