Association of Tribal Archives and Museums

Artist Networks and Convenings

Location:

Oklahoma City, OK

Award:

$15,000

Project:

Building Connections, Strengthening Communities: Collaborative Opportunities for Native Artists and Cultural Organizations

Website:

www.atalm.org

ATALM Brochure.pdf

Program Indigenous Materials Conference.pdf

Funding for this project will support an aspect of the June 4-7, 2012 International Conference of Tribal Archives, Libraries, and Museums in Tulsa, Oklahoma providing professional development opportunities for Native artists. The day-long pre-conference will feature sessions tailored to the business development needs of artists and authors featuring marketing strategies; copyright, and licensing training; working with galleries/publishers/collectors, as well as sessions that feature model programs highlighting library and museum support for local artists and authors in exhibit development and presentations. All the sessions will provide extensive resources that will ensure attendees gain practical skills.

“The act of giving was part of the ‘gifting economy’ of the Northwest where one’s wealth was measured by generosity, good work and a good heart. That is the work of philanthropy too: It’s an honor to have plenty and to share. There is no lack when you have this process in place and the most important mindset to have while participating is gratitude, or giving thanks and promising to care for all, no matter what.”

Elizabeth Woody, Navajo/Warm Springs/Wasco/Yakama

Board Secretary, Native Arts & Cultures Foundation

“These gifts demonstrate strong tribal interest in creating a powerful funding engine for protecting and preserving Native art and culture—the very cornerstones of tribal sovereignty. A foundation of this nature will help reverse the long history of government suppression of Native culture done as part of the United States' assimilation program. Through gifts of this nature, Indian Country can direct its resources to protect what is closest to home to all Indian tribes—our own cultures."

Walter Echo-Hawk, Pawnee

Of counsel, Crowe & Dunlevy, P.C.

Association of Tribal Archives and Museums

2011/2012 Grantees

2010/2011 Grantees