By Associated Press
The U.S. Postal Service released a new stamp series in late April featuring vibrant depictions of Native dancers by Cochiti Pueblo artist Mateo Romero.
The stamps debuted at the Gathering of Nations Powwow in Albuquerque, the largest powwow in North America. Romero, based in Pojoaque Pueblo, was commissioned to create four paintings portraying Indigenous dancers in traditional regalia, including scenes of hoop and fancy shawl dances.
One stamp features a woman in an elk-tooth dress performing the Crow Hop dance against a deep purple background. Romero painted the works over the past year, using photographs of dancers in motion and layering paint to capture the energy and movement of powwow celebrations.
Three of the stamps feature Native women, emphasizing Indigenous female strength and culture. The stamps will be available in sheets of 20 for $14.60 and can be ordered online.
