The Cheyenne River community chose the name for CRYP’s free, public art park, christening it “Waniyetu Wowapi.” Translated from Lakota, it means “Winter Count”—a year period, from snow to snow, written on something flat. The winter count is how the Lakota Nation traditionally recorded its history, so it was a fitting name for our 5-acre park.
Located adjacent to Cokata Wiconi, this free public space allows Cheyenne River’s young people, members of our community, and visitors from other places to express their own unique voices and life experiences in a positive, healthy way. Both traditional and contemporary arts are welcome in this safe outdoor space.
We believe the park benefits all those who create within its borders, but also those who choose to visit these ever-changing walls of art. To that end, we have built the Waniyetu Wowapi Art Walk, which winds through the park. Not only will community members and visitors of all ages enjoy wandering the maintained trail, they’ll be enjoy moments of rest and quiet contemplation on the art walk’s carefully placed benches.