Larry Running Turtle Salazar is from the Tsa La Gi tribe, which is
part of the Cherokee Nation. His passion for art was influenced by his mother who was also an artist. Early art experiences began with doodling on sketch pads, which led to more complex drawings, paintings and eventually, carvings. Art work is Running Turtle’s means of connection to his Native American ancestors. He
dedicates his art to the memory of Iron Eyes Cody, who was the first American Indian to campaign and remind Americans to
Keep America Beautiful.
"My inspiration throughout my life has been the American Indian
culture. American Indian’s lived their lives with the strong belief in using everything they had to the fullest. Not one thing was wasted. They were one with Mother Earth and respected and honored all that was provided to them. They taught their young how to utilize the land and take nothing for granted. They were taught to use only what they needed and not to take anything more."
"In my retirement, I have devoted my time in educating the public about the American Indian culture through my artwork, lectures, learning circles, and various ceremonies. My most recent
contribution to the education of the public has been through the
use of my artwork as illustrations for a chapter of the book
Community A Human Becoming Perspective written by Dr. Louis Kelley. In teaching, I hope to educate all on how to properly take care of Mother Earth the way my ancestors taught us -- to
respect the land and keep it pure and clean the way it was meant to be. Recycling, picking up litter and planting a tree would be the
beginnings for a better environment."
Running Turtle dedicated his show to the memory of Iron Eyes Cody and Janet F.
Harte.
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