ABOUT ESMARIE

Esmarie is a self-taught artist based in Vermilion, South Dakota; she also is a citizen of the Isanti Dakota people of Santee, Nebraska. Esmarie has been passionate about the arts since she was a youth, participating in programs like Mazinaakizige: Youth Photographers at the Minnesota Historical Society, and the Oscar Howe Summer Institute at the University of South Dakota. Esmarie is a fashion illustrator who enjoys creating pieces reflecting contemporary fashions while mixing them with Dakota contour.

In 2020 Esmarie began her artistic journey by selling original stickers and prints. Since then, Esmarie discovered a passion for her Dakota history through fashion. She wants to see more indigenous representation in the Fashion industry and wants to help create ways to uplift and support her community through fashion. Esmarie is grateful for the opportunity to develop her artistic and leadership skills at Ignite Rural; not only will this program benefit Esmarie but the community she comes from.