Description
Vincent Cuffee, currently on view in
Living Conduit – Indigenous History and Present Day, South Ocean Gallery at South Nassau Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Freeport, NY, October 3, 2026 – November 21, 2026
Vincent Cuffee introduces himself as the son of Eugene and Mabel Cuffee, born and raised at Shinnecock. In his interview with Jeremy Dennis, he describes a life spent outdoors, caring for animals, building with found materials, and learning to hunt. A chicken coop assembled from pallets and plywood recalls his mother's resourcefulness and stories about his grandfather. Family knowledge becomes something useful in his own hands.
Cuffee remembers his father first taking him hunting when he was about twelve. Over time, the companionship of a hunting group became more important to him than the day's catch. He describes making duck calls, working with a dog, and sharing the basics with women and younger people interested in learning. Patience and responsibility matter, including on cold, wet days when no birds are taken.
His memories also register changes to the homeland: woods interrupted by new houses, fields replaced by development, and a shoreline altered by erosion. These observations come from returning to places over many years. Listening to elders helped him understand that his own experience belonged to a longer history. He values knowledge received through conversation with people who lived what they describe.
When asked about pride, Cuffee speaks of being Shinnecock and remembering where he comes from. He questions the assumption that a Native person must have a particular appearance. The portrait and interview allow him to describe that belonging on his own terms, through relationships and everyday practices. His wish for renewed community gatherings and opportunities to teach younger people looks toward a future in which those relationships remain active.
Artwork Details
Title: Vincent Cuffee
Year: 2018
Medium: Archival Inkjet Print Mounted on Foamboard
Size: 33 x 22 inches
Edition: 1/10
