Duchess Ravenwves
Karen Serna-Jansson
A Piipash (Maricopa) Writer, blogger, songwriter, rapper & singer from Gila River Indian Community in Arizona.
My name is Karen Serna-Jansson and I’m a Piipash (Maricopa) Indigenous woman from the Gila River Indian Community who is a writer, blogger, musician, singer & rapper. My name Duchess Ravenwves pronounced (Raven waves).
I use my art utilizing both literature & music to express an underrepresented minority in the world with clever, sassy, sexy and thought provoking lyrical content. My material is aimed at bringing body positivity, strong female sexuality, cultural awareness & insight into my life. I consider myself a storyteller & use my words & voice to not only entertain but to give a glimpse into my life as an indigenous woman.
My ideas & stories can at times be controversial & provoking at times but I stand firmly with my art & if it doesn’t entertain it can at least stand testament to the fact that indigenous voices are missing & unheard of in mainstream media & music. Therefore, I take pride in challenging the world to pay attention to topics I discuss which is not intended for children.
Given that I am from a small Indigenous tribe I try to utilize my knowledge, experience & confidence by creating art. I stand firm in my ambition to create a ripple in literature & music by daring to be unapologetically confident & daring.
I grew up in the 6th District of Gila River Indian commmunity; in the village of Gila Crossing. The daughter of a full blooded Maricopa woman, and a Mexican immigrant I have spent most of my life and education to the empowerment of native peoples.
As a former tribal ambassador I continue to commit myself to informing the world of the tribe that I love so very much. I find that through writing and storytelling I can share my indigenous culture that has been often overlooked.
I have had many adventures throughout my life which has led me to live in Gävle, Sweden. I find it difficult to maintain a true cultural identity when so far from my homelands.
Yet, I find solace in the fact that I have a platform constantly to share my many experiences and struggles as an Indigenous woman. It’s been a culture shock, but no adventure is too great for a determined woman.
I anticipate making my mark in the world with my art & above all be one of the first from my community to have the nerve & courage to dive into mediums not often ventured.
I anticipate my first album entitled “Native Beauty” to be released in the near future of 2023. Please enjoy my writing & music on this site & on SoundCloud! May it not only entertain but motivate you to learn more about the plights of Indigenous peoples.
Duchess Ravenwves 