The Lynx Artist Series continues on Tuesday, July 28 for Native American Heritage Night, presented by Treasure Island, when the Lynx host the Toronto Tempo. This time, the series features a new long sleeve designed by Kachina Yeager, a Bdewakaŋtuŋwaŋ Dakota artist, writer and PhD candidate at the University of Minnesota.

Drawing, writing and Dakota language are all connected in Yeager's work. Whether she's writing poetry or sketching florals in the margins of a notebook, each becomes another way of observing and understanding the world around her.

The limited-edition long sleeve features Dakota floral artwork alongside the Lynx wordmark and Dakota language. Inspired by the plants of northern Minnesota, the design reflects Yeager's connection to place, language and community.

We asked Yeager to walk us through the inspiration and some of the details featured on her Lynx Artist Series design.

Starting With Research

Before putting pencil to paper, Yeager approached the project the same way she approaches much of her creative work: with curiosity.

Yeager: "I started thinking about what represents the Lynx and where Canada lynx actually live in Minnesota. That led me into researching the plants and flowers of the Northwoods, especially ones I wasn't as familiar with."

The Floral Inspiration

The botanical elements throughout the design are inspired by basswood flowers and seed pods, a plant that became the visual anchor for the piece.

Yeager: "I was really inspired by basswood flowers when they're in full bloom, but also the different stages they go through. Their seed pods are really round, so I played with those different shapes throughout the design."

Dakota Language

Alongside the Lynx wordmark is the Dakota name for lynx, something Yeager felt was important to include.

Yeager: "The literal translation is 'gray cat.' One of the things I love about Dakota language is how image-heavy it is. The words themselves help you picture what they're describing."

Drawing And Writing Together

Although Yeager is best known as a writer, drawing has always been part of her creative process.

Yeager: "Growing up, drawing and writing were always connected for me. Even now, if I'm sitting in class, I'm usually drawing florals while I'm listening. That's just how I stay engaged."

Native American Heritage Night

For Yeager, the design is a chance to celebrate her Dakota heritage while sharing it with the Lynx community.

Yeager: "I'm excited, but definitely a little nervous too. It'll be really cool to see people wearing the design around the arena."

Fans can shop Kachina Yeager's Lynx Artist Series Native American Heritage Night long sleeve on Tuesday, July 28 when the Lynx host the Toronto Tempo. The shirt will be available at The Team Store, a Fanatics Experience, outside Section 136 while supplies last.