Sonya Kellier-Combs – A Visit with the Artist

The afternoon of May 19 was spent at the Anchorage studio of conceptual artist Sonya-Kelliher Combs, who was recipient of a $20,000 NACF Individual Artist Project grant. A video interview was conducted with Sonya, in which she talked about her work, her career, and how her NACF grant has been beneficial to her. While Sonya was being interviewed, she was busy with one of her recent creations, carefully drawing a needle and thread through her canvas. The NACF funding that Sonya has received will support work with a master printer and the development of an exhibit, which will culminate in a retrospective solo exhibition at the International Gallery of Contemporary Native Art in Anchorage.

“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

K-12 Program Coordinator, Center for Coastal Marine Observation & Prediction

“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.

Sonya Kellier-Combs – A Visit with the Artist

2011/2012 Grantees

2010/2011 Grantees