Bizhiki Nibauit
Shane Weeks
Shane Weeks is a member of the Shinnecock Nation of Southampton, New York. Shane's traditional name is "Bizhiki Nibauit", which means Standing Buffalo. He is also from the Buffalo Clan. Shane is dedicated to his community and represents his people in a number of capacities. As a traditional singer and dancer, cultural consultant, artist and a member of several boards and committees, Shane's mission is to bridge the gap between his community of Shinnecock, the local community, and communities abroad.
As An Artist
As a multi-disciplinary artist, Shane has been able to express his culture and knowledge to communities world-wide. He has worked with materials such as leather, wood, stone, bone and other natural materials. He is a master wampum maker, creating beads and other objects from the quahog clam shells. Shane also works in the mediums of social practice, traditional dance, tradtional music, film, and photography.
Community Outreach
Shane is able to convey his message as a cultural consultant to a broad audience in many ways. Hosting presentations and workshops at various schools, organizations, community events, he is able to spread his knowledge. Shane sits on many committees and boards such as the Southampton Town Arts and Culture Committee, Watermill Center Community Fellowship, Shinnecock Nation Natural Resources Committee, Graves Protection Warriors Society, Southampton Town / Shinnecock Nation Cultural Heritage Stewardship Committee and many more. Shane enjoys the fact that in today's society he finds there are people that are willing to listen, engage, and learn about his people.
The Shinnecock Nation
The Shinnecock Nation is a self-governing, federally recognized tribe. The sovereign nation consists of approximately 1,700 enrolled members. About 700 of which live on their residential territory on the western boarder of Southampton Village. This territory is close to 1,000 acres. They also control about 90 acres in Hampton Bays just west of the Shinnecock Canal.
