Brian Bettelyoun (Oglala Lakota Tribal No. U18464) is a contemporary American Indian artist. Although he is primarily of Oglala Lakota descent, he also has the blood of Cheyenne and possibly a small amount of Pawnee. He was born in 1945 in Spokane Washington during one of the few trips his parents made off the Pine Ridge Reservation. Brian grew up on the Reservation, living at times with both his parents and his grandparents. It was from them that he learned the lessons of dignity, respect for other people, and respect for the earth that is mother to us all. He was told of the importance of the Black Hills and of the good medicine that came from there. Many images and experiences of this childhood surface in the character and appearance of this artwork. As you view Brian's artwork, his wish is that you become aware of the energy that makes up your natural surroundings. In the Lakota language this is called 'Wakan'.