Niibin Headbird-Garza

photographer . filmmaker . teaching artist

BIOGRAPHY

My name is Niibin Headbird-Garza. I am from the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in Minnesota. I am the oldest and only daughter. I have four babies, one son and three daughters.

I started working with InProgress through Four Directions Charter School in 1999. The first project that I made was about my son. I really love photography and teaching photography and Digital design. I really like that I can use photography to honor my family.

Teaching is important to me because I love it. I enjoy it when the students learn a new way to express themselves through photography and/or video making. I am very proud that I can give them the tools to express themselves in a positive way and that it motivates them to further their education. I have had several students continue working with InProgress and even gain employment.

Photography is important to me because it helps keep memories alive that we may have forgotten. It also helps to remember our family members that have passed on. One of the projects that I have worked on with my students is bringing old black and white photos of our ancestors back to life by adding modern coloring and/or components to them.

I hope to be able to further and renew my knowledge in photography, digital design, and Imovie. I hope to continue teaching for many years.