In Memory of Jay Carrier

Jay Carrier, Wolf Clan, Onondaga/Tuscarora Nations (1963-2025), was a friend and inspiration to so many, in so many communities. At the Burchfield Penney, we were very fortunate to have a decades-long relationship with him. 

Many artists will say that their reason for being an artist is because of a need to create. This couldn't be truer than with Jay. His practice was driven. He spent a career working hard at a job outside of the arts. He put in an effort and energy that was doubled for his family and his creative work. He produced and explored more ideas than some who are fortunate to only focus on their art, and he was only getting started. All that he created and achieved was paralleled by his support and kindness that he shared in support of others.

We are all deeply saddened by his passing, and we cling to every piece of work he produced and every conversation we had with him. Through this, we hope that we can continue to honor and share his work with those who were not fortunate enough to know him personally. 

Our thoughts are with his family & friends at this difficult time.

– Scott Propeack, Burchfield Penney Executive Director