Artist Nathaniel Ruleaux talks about a life exploring identity, influenced by his indigenous Oglala Lakota Nation artistic heritage, rural western Nebraska life, and a love for theater, which he pursued academically and professionally across the country. Ruleaux also shares his personal awakening to indigenous rights and lore, which he explores in a fusion of contemporary and traditional visual arts.

Nathaniel Ruleaux is an award-winning artist and culture worker currently located on unceded land of the Umónhon & Očhéthi Šakówiŋ in Nebraska. A partner, father, and member of the Oglala Lakota Nation, his work combines modern art with traditional indigenous imagery. He is a founding member of Unceded Artist Collective. Recently, he created work for Opera Omaha’s 2023-2024 season and the national 2022 Indigenous Futures Survey. In addition to creating visual art, he is a classically-trained actor and educator. He received his MFA in Theatre from the University of Houston’s School of Theatre and Dance after receiving a BA in Theatre Performance at the Johnny Carson School of Theatre & Film at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.