Art by ASH

ASH (Mark R. Watson) 
Oil on Canvas 

This powerful portrait by Mark R. Watson (ASH) shows a Chickamauga warrior from the Lower Towns, a unique tribe of Native Americans. Under the leadership of Dragging Canoe, they split from the main "Cherokee" Nation in 1777. The Chickamauga were known for their strong resistance to American expansion in the late 18th century. 

The subject is named "Na na m'ke ke," which means "Thunder." This name reflects the fierce spirit of the Lower Village warriors. Watson’s heavy brushwork and earthy colors highlight the strength and historical significance of the figure. 
Key details in the portrait reveal the identity of a late 18th-century Chickamauga fighter: 

- The Headdress: A traditional roach headdress, often worn by a seasoned warrior or leader. 
- Cultural Context: The Chickamauga ancestors were a diverse tribe. Many were warriors and often fought alongside Shawnee and Creek allies. They formed the "Five Lower Towns" (including Running Water and Nickajack) to protect their ancestral lands. 
- The Gaze: The subject's fierce expression reflects the "Chickamauga Wars," a long conflict that shaped the survival and independence of the Lower Cherokee villages. 

Through this artwork, ASH honors the specific history of the Chickamauga, portraying "Thunder" as not just an individual but also as a symbol of the lasting resilience of the Lower Towns.