With the support of Tah’lum, we are creating a locally informed, in-person version of this training to respond to the specific needs of Indigenous artists and art organizations in lək̓ʷəŋən and WSÁNEĆ territories. This training will be grounded in conversations with Indigenous artists like you—whose voices, stories, and knowledge are vital for me to responsibly take on this work.
After discussions with other local artists, I knew that art organizations here need to start from the ground at creating healthy relationships with Indigenous artists. Hence the name, Understanding the Soil, as we are hoping to create a training that shows that there are so many things that organizations need to do- from the roots- to respectfully grow relationships with Indigenous artists.
The final outcome will be a 3-part in-person training series in the fall of 2025, for a small group of art organizations. It will aim to build accountability, respect, and capacity for long-term relationships with Indigenous artists and communities. After reflecting on the project and getting feedback, I may continue to offer the training again to other organizations.
Are You an Indigenous Artist and Want to Share Your Thoughts?
What helps you feel safe, excited, and supported in art spaces? What’s working — and what’s not — when it comes to how art organizations show up for Indigenous artists?
Share your thoughts in the survey below! Your insights will help shape a training designed to support non-Indigenous-led organizations in creating more respectful, reciprocal, and culturally grounded relationships with Indigenous artists.
