Charley Flyte, a multitalented Oglala Lakota and Mohawk artist, takes immense pride in her heritage as a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Her family's artistic lineage is deeply entrenched in a rich tradition of Native artistic expression, with her mother, Kayeri Akweks, being a highly acclaimed print and mixed media artist, renowned for her exceptional skill and creativity. Kayeri Akweks' artistic prowess has garnered widespread recognition, with her work being admired and respected by many. Additionally, Charley's late father, William Stewart Sitting Bull, was a gifted painter, whose artistic talents were widely admired by numerous individuals.
Charley's familial ties to the artistic world are deeply rooted, with her parents possessing exceptional creative abilities. Furthermore, her brother, Isaiah Stewart, is a talented painter and designer, renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and profound comprehension of the significance of preserving cultural heritage.
In addition to Isaiah's remarkable skills, Charley is also closely related to Tokeya Waci U, a highly acclaimed painter, designer, and muralist. Tokeya's work has garnered widespread recognition and admiration for its breathtaking beauty and profound cultural importance.
Tokeya's artistic endeavors have not only earned her widespread acclaim but have also contributed significantly to the preservation and celebration of cultural heritage. Her work serves as a testament to the power of art in bringing people together and fostering a deeper understanding of the world around us.
As a result of her family's collective artistic prowess, Charley has been surrounded by a supportive and creative environment that has undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping her own artistic vision and aspirations.
Charley's family tree is a testament to her distinguished ancestry, with a rich history that stretches back to the esteemed leaders of the Mohawk nation. Her lineage can be traced back to Peter Sa Ga Yeath Qua Pieth Tow Brant, a prominent figure from the revered Bear Clan, whose influence and legacy continue to have a lasting impact. This esteemed patriarch's impact is still felt today, and his legacy is a source of pride for Charley.
In addition to her paternal heritage, Charley's lineage is also enriched by the presence of Joseph Thayendanegea Brant, a direct descendant of Peter and a notable figure in his own right. His influence and accomplishments have contributed to the growth and development of Charley's sense of identity and belonging.
Furthermore, Charley's paternal heritage is closely tied to the Tatanka Iyotanka Tiospaye, a cultural and kinship network that has played a significant role in shaping her identity and sense of belonging. This network has provided a sense of community and connection for Charley, and has helped to inform her values and worldview.
Charley's educational trajectory in the realm of the arts served as a robust foundation for her endeavors in the realm of storytelling, laying the groundwork for a career that would eventually unfold.
Charley's academic pursuits took her to Johns Hopkins University, where she earned a degree in Film Studies, thereby acquiring a profound understanding of the art of filmmaking.
Throughout her time at Johns Hopkins, Charley had the opportunity to refine her filmmaking skills, fostering a deep appreciation for the craft and honing her abilities in this area.
In addition to her academic achievements, Charley also pursued her passion for acting by enrolling in the prestigious T. Schrieber Conservatory, where she further developed her acting abilities under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Charley's illustrious television career has been marked by a plethora of notable appearances on a diverse range of popular and critically acclaimed shows, with her most recent forays into the world of television entertainment including, but not limited to, her impressive turns on the highly anticipated comedy series Rutherford Falls and the gripping drama anthology American Crime Story: Impeachment.
Charley's remarkable writing abilities have attracted the attention of esteemed industry authority Bird Runningwater, a highly respected figure in the film industry who has held the esteemed position of Director of the distinguished Sundance Indigenous Program, a platform renowned for its dedication to amplifying indigenous voices and perspectives.
Charley's exceptional script, Charla, garnered the admiration of Runningwater, a renowned figure in the film industry, who deemed it a crucial cinematic endeavour. This esteemed professional praised Charla's innovative approach to blending supernatural horror with socially conscious themes, lauding its ability to successfully merge genre-bending storytelling with thought-provoking commentary.
Charley is a multifaceted creative force whose extraordinary talents transcend the boundaries of film and television, demonstrating a profound versatility that is truly remarkable.
As a skilled visual artist, she has cultivated a unique artistic expression that knows no bounds, showcasing her incredible range and versatility as a creative individual.
Beyond her impressive work in the visual arts, Charley has also honed her craft as an award-winning audiobook narrator, utilizing her distinctive voice to bring words to life in a way that is both captivating and mesmerizing.
Moreover, her poetic prowess has earned her recognition as a Pushcart Prize-nominated poet, a testament to her mastery of the written word and her ability to craft poems that are both powerful and evocative.
In addition to her many accomplishments in the world of poetry, Charley's creative talents extend far beyond the realm of the written word, making her a true force to be reckoned with in the world of art and entertainment.
Charley's impressive artistic accomplishments are merely the tip of the iceberg, as she has also undergone a comprehensive and rigorous training regimen through the prestigious 2021 FILMBA Indigenous Producing Program at Capilano University, a renowned institution of higher learning.
As a proud graduate of this esteemed program, Charley has been equipped with a profound understanding of the intricacies of film production, garnered through a demanding and immersive educational experience that has honed her skills and further solidified her reputation as a multifaceted and accomplished creative professional.
With her academic credentials bolstered by this distinguished program, Charley has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the world of film and beyond, her impressive portfolio of artistic achievements serving as a testament to her unwavering dedication and unrelenting passion for her craft.
Her success is a direct result of her unwavering commitment to honing her skills, and her ability to seamlessly integrate her artistic talents with her newfound knowledge and expertise, making her a true trailblazer in the world of film and beyond.
As a graduate of the 2021 FILMBA Indigenous Producing Program, Charley has been given a unique platform to showcase her exceptional abilities, and has leveraged this opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the film industry, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and influence future generations of creatives.
