Northwest Indian College
Bellingham, Washington
First Nations established the Native Arts Initiative (NAI) in 2014 to provide direct grantmaking, networking opportunities, and training and technical assistance (TTA) to Native-led arts and cultural hubs who are working to preserve and advance traditional Native arts through programming focused on supporting artists and intergenerational sharing of artistic skills and knowledge.
Under the NAI, First Nations provides awarded grantees with organizational and programmatic resources, including direct grants and technical assistance and training. Since 2014, First Nations has awarded more than $3.5 million in grant funds to a variety of eligible Native-controlled nonprofit organizations and tribal government programs under the NAI.
Northwest Indian College
Native Arts Donor-Funded Campaign: 2023-2026
Our purpose is to create an art exchange between our Elders who retain critical cultural information and the next generation of artists to increase and the sustainability of Indigenous ancestorial art, its designs, and historical significance and protect its integrity. Passing traditional knowledge and cultural understanding is critical to the sovereignty and continuation of our people’s identity. This project will provide the equipment and materials needed to facilitate the transfer of skills and knowledge, increase understanding, and retain the art forms passed by Elders to those willing to learn the techniques, patterns, legends, and culture of Indigenous peoples. Participants representing the 119 Tribes attending Northwest Indian College in addition to the community members who participate will create various art, regalia, drums, and learn the stories and history behind the patterns and legends underlying the ancestorial designs and art.