The Photography Of Douglas Miles was formed in the crucible of San Carlos Arizona.

I don’t shoot stereotypical photos of Native people. My photography is a focused and specific statement on the raw oft overlooked ignored power of Native women, men and youth. Images of tribal people like mine are ignored by the Native Art market/field/media in favor of the romantic, cliche and sweet. I’m not following a trend nor pandering to the mainstream for acceptance, pity or publicity. Nor do I shoot photos of poverty, depression or isolation. Though we face myriad challenges in Indian Country, our people need no more exploitation. Our own tribal narrative is of extreme importance in a society that has attempted to define who we are in our complexity.
Artists like myself create constantly and with purpose. We engage, communicate and address/discuss issues at hand in our art. My work is now entering its 25th year extending into film, skateboarding, photography, writing, directing, producing, acting, product design and brand management.

Recently a pseudo-Native website of questionable repute lifted, borrowed and stole a photo turning it into a cheesy meme with no credit. “Sikkest Natives” has shared this thousands of times without my permission. I don’t allow use or editing of my work without express written permission. Tumblr art shares are okay because they are tracked back and credited. Lynnette Haozous ( originally photographed as Lozen in the “Apache Chronicle” film in San Carlos Arizona) and I have repeatedly addressed the issue with them. I’ve photographed her many times over the years. This site continues to use the my photo (attached).

Some of these so-called Native websites also exploit and objectify Native women. These websites subliminally promote violence as an answer to community problems which is juvenile and often in poor taste. We can do way better than what these pseudo “Native” sites promote. By SHARING this post you can send a message that this is unacceptable.

Thank You

Douglas Miles,
Artist.