Description
Viral Impact
This is part of the Neon Series by Weidaaka Yoodoohaa (Bill Pfeifer, Jr.). Please check out the blog about Viral Impact for details about the artwork
Full Neon Series featuring all 6 stunning artworks of native resilience
This awesome t-shirt features artwork from the “Viral Impact” piece, part of the impactful Neon Series currently exhibited at 5th and Pike in downtown Seattle until May 2025, thanks to a partnership with Seattle Restored. “Viral Impact” is a raw and powerful exploration of the lasting effects of colonial oppression, drawing a stark parallel to the disproportionate impact of the recent pandemic on marginalized Indigenous communities. The design utilizes a deep black background to emphasize the unease and unknown, highlighting a central figure adorned with a spiked crown reminiscent of colonial powers, directly linking historical oppression to modern-day viral threats. Its single eye symbolizes the surveillance and control historically imposed on Indigenous peoples, reminding us of the intentionality behind colonial actions.
Beyond its striking visual elements, the t-shirt serves as a potent symbol of resilience. Cyan forms depicting distressed, traditional Northwest Coast motifs surround the central figure, showcasing the pressures and disruptions faced by Indigenous communities. The figure’s belly contains disrupted concentric rings, challenging viewers to confront their understanding of tradition and emphasizing the complex, multifaceted impact of colonialism and viral pandemics. Ultimately, this wearable art piece invites reflection on history, culture, and resilience, urging viewers to engage in meaningful dialogue and consider how past injustices continue to shape the present. For those interested in purchasing larger-format prints with neon lighting, or exploring other pieces in the Neon Series, contact information is available online.
