Collective Spirit Podcast: Recent Episodes
First Peoples Fund
First Peoples Fund presents the Collective Spirit® podcast. The Collective Spirit moves each of us to stand up and make a difference, to pass on ancestral knowledge, and simply extend a hand of generosity. The Collective Spirit podcast features Native artists and culture bearers who discuss the power of Indigenous art and culture. The Collective Spirit® podcast is produced by First Peoples Fund, whose mission is to honor and support Indigenous artists and culture bearers through grant-making initiatives, culturally rooted programming, and training & mentorship. Learn more at www.firstpeoplesfund.org
What if your craft could become your sanctuary and medicine? Join us as we sit down with 2024 Jennifer Easton Community Spirit Award Honoree, Sheila Ransom, a master basket maker from the St. Regis Mohawk tribe, who shares her incredible 30-year journey into the heart of this ancient art. Sheila didn't start her craft until later in life, under the mentorship of her godmother and other master artisans, but her connection to basket-making has since become a profound source of healing and inspiration. Sheila's vivid storytelling reveals how the natural world and everyday objects can ignite creativity and lead to stunning, unique designs.
Have you ever wondered how art can be a powerful vessel for preserving cultural heritage? Meet 2024 Jennifer Easton Community Spirit Award Honoree Golga Oscar (Yup'ik), who shares their profound journey from a childhood fascination with Inuit art to becoming a celebrated textile artist rooted in the rich traditions of the Yupik Nation. Golga recounts their awe-inspiring experiences at the Yup'ik dance ceremony, Kuvvigik, and how these cultural moments propelled them to create traditional attire that honors her ancestors. Discover the pivotal role their community and the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) played in shaping their artistic journey, and how their art becomes a bridge to her spiritual connection with nature.
Tiana Spotted Thunder, an Oglala Lakota musician, shares the rich tapestry of sound that weaves traditional powwow rhythms with the contemporary beats of hip-hop and R&B. Her voice, a conduit for heritage and healing, shares the complexities of her musical journey, revealing the personal joys and challenges she faces in the studio. Tiana's artistry is a surprising kaleidoscope, as she confesses her love for genres as diverse as grunge and alternative rock, which color her creative expression.
The music we craft bears the weight of memory, the lightness of hope, and the colors of our deepest emotions. In a heartfelt discussion with Talon Ducheneaux (Cheyenne River Lakota), Program Manager of the Wicahpi Olowan Music Program and Studio, we uncover the sacred art of songwriting as a tribute to those who have danced ahead to the spirit world. Talon's conversation with Tiana delves into the intricacies of composing in Lakota, the language of her ancestors, and the delicate dance of self-accompaniment.
Learn more about the First Peoples Fund - Wicahpi Olowan Music Program and Studio at https://bit.ly/WicahpiOlowan
Allison Bremner (Tlingit, '23 Cultural Capital Fellow) recounts the pivotal moments that led her to embrace her cultural heritage through art, like the sparks that flew at the Celebration dance festival in Juneau. Her words paint vivid pictures of her artistic evolution, from the early days of form line painting to her deeply respected mentorships. Allison candidly discusses the balancing act of a self-employed artist, from the thrill of commercial success to the profound duty of crafting traditional pieces for cultural ceremonies. She opens up about the support system that's crucial not just to survive but to thrive in this space, weaving a narrative that affirms the significance of community in an artist's life.
When Wakaya Wells, a two-spirit poet from the Choctaw Nation, speaks of the sanctuary they found in writing, it's more than just words on a page—it's a testament to the power of self-expression in navigating one's identity. Our latest episode invites listeners into Wakaya's inspiring journey, revealing how education at Dartmouth and the Institute of American Indian Arts became the forge for their transformation into a fiction writer and a voice within their respective communities. Their narrative is a beacon for anyone who's wrestled with inner turmoil, demonstrating how one can channel the chaos of conflicting ideologies and mixed emotions into a wellspring of strength and enlightenment.
2022 Community Spirit Award Honoree Renee Dillards' (Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians) rhythmic storytelling reminds us that the art of weaving is a thread that connects us to the Earth and each other. As a natural fiber weaver, Renee shares an intimate portrayal of her life's tapestry, woven with reverence for Mother Earth. Her narrative is a healing balm, rekindling a connection to heritage that transcends the atrocities of boarding school traumas. Through her eloquent words, we witness the revival of ancestral arts and the vital role women play in this cultural resurgence. As Renee's hands shape traditional cattail mats, she stitches together a community dedicated to their forebears' sustainable and prayerful practices, a poignant reminder of the resilience and continuity of Indigenous peoples.
When 2023 Artist in Business Leadership fellow Deleana Uses Knife (Lakota) creates work, the colors seem to dance and stories come alive. Embark on an inspiring journey with this exceptional Lakota artist from the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, whose passion for graphic design, mural creation, and dreams of animation bring the narratives of the Black Hills and Devil's Tower into vivid focus. Selena's art is more than a visual feast; it's a beacon of cultural preservation, a testament to her dedication to storytelling, and a challenge to the stereotypes that have long confined indigenous voices. Our conversation reveals how her support from the First People's Fund catalyzed her creativity, leading to a studio of her own and recognition such as the Emerging Artist Award. As she sets her sights on collaborating with giants like Walt Disney, Selena becomes a true muse for aspiring artists everywhere.
In our conversation with 2023 Community Spirit Award honoree Tom Pohaku Stone, we are embraced by the profound essence of Native Hawaiian culture. His voice carries the resilience of his people, the reverence for the land and the ocean that has nurtured them. As a guardian of tradition, Tom's story unfolds from the roots of his extended family upbringing, through the intricate crafts of woodworking and stone carving, and into his vital role in educating the young stewards of Hawaiian identity. The tapestry of his life is a testament to the enduring struggle for Indigenous sovereignty and the importance of maintaining a cultural legacy amidst the forces of colonization.
Tom Pohaku Stone is a beacon for Native Hawaiian craftsmanship and shares the lessons he imparts in Hawai'i, which are more than mere skills; they are threads in the fabric of identity under siege. In each crafted piece, whether shaped by hand from native wood or carved from ancestral stone, there is a story, a life, a connection to be made.
2022 Artist in Business Leadership Fellows, Golga Oscar (Kasigluk Elders Traditional Council - Yup'ik Nation) weaves a narrative of his personal odyssey back to their Indigenous roots. Through their vivid recounting, we're transported to a world where ancient parka making and beadwork are more than mere crafts; they're lifelines to a heritage persistently navigating the torrents of Westernization. Golga's voice resonates with a passion for the painstaking reclamation of ancestral wisdom, which blossoms into an urgent call for the current and future custodians of Yupiq traditions to preserve the irreplaceable artistry ingrained in their identity.
2023 Cultural Capital Fellow Penny Kagigebi (Ojibwe), a Queer2-Spirit artist from the White Earth Reservation, unveils their transformative experiences with grief and the pursuit of Queer2-Spirit cultural reclamation through indigenous art forms. Through their narrative, we're listeners and companions on their journey to alignment with the Earth's vibrations, using natural materials like birch bark and porcupine quills steeped in therapeutic resonance. Penny's candor about their family's painful history with forced relocations and boarding schools offers a potent reminder of the resilience in preserving generational knowledge and identity.
This episode is a heartfelt exploration of "The Root Experience," where 2023 Cultural Capital Fellow James Pakootas (Confederated Tribes of Colville Reserve) unveils his journey to breathe new life into Native culture by weaving together the threads of ancestral tales with the vibrant energy of modern art forms. We embark on an auditory pilgrimage, traversing the landscape of historical narrative and contemporary issues, such as the influence of the Grand Coulee Dam on tribal life, all while championing the resurgence of indigenous identity through film, hip-hop, and dance.
2023 Artist in Business Leadership fellow Lisa Kennedy (Saginaw Chippewa) is a beacon of indigenous art. Join us as Lisa takes us through her vibrant tapestry of life – from humble beginnings to crafting a legacy. She and her partner, Adam Avery, illuminate the rich cultural heritage by intertwining traditional art forms like beadwork and black ash basket weaving with contemporary narratives. Lisa's academic prowess in public administration also comes into play, showcasing how one can serve one's community by marrying cultural teachings with modern strategies. Her candid account of overcoming self-doubt to embrace her role as a knowledge keeper is a striking reminder of the resilience woven into the fabric of indigenous stories.
2023 Artist in Business Leadership Fellow Kalyn Faye Barnoski (Cherokee and Muscogee Creek) artist illuminates the importance of maintaining a Native perspective in spaces where it is often overshadowed. Her story is not just about the personal metamorphosis but how embracing one’s passions can ripple out to touch the lives of others. Kaywin's family roots and her innate musical prowess have been the bedrock of her journey, leading her to a place where her work as a curator of Native Art and her performances become more than just a job—they're a mission to bridge cultural divides.
Embark on an auditory journey through the vibrant heart of indigenous art as 2023 Cultural Capital Fellow and Ojibwe artist Adam Avery shares his profound connection with ancestral craftsmanship. From the delicate intricacies of beadwork to the sturdy elegance of birch bark canoes, Adam unveils the rich heritage woven into each creation, illuminating the significance of these traditions within his community. He passionately recounts the evolution of his skills, initially honed to craft his own regalia, and now, as a beacon of generational knowledge, he alongside his wife, teaches these skills to ensure their survival. The resilience required to master these crafts, the challenges faced in seeking mentors, and the deep-seated desire to sustain cultural practices form the crux of our discussion.
2023 Artist in Business Leadership fellow Bobby Brower Itta (Inupiaq) is a fashion designer whose Inupaq roots and artistic prowess have woven a tapestry of resilience and creativity. Bobbi Lynn shares her heartwarming narrative, which paints a vivid picture of the power of traditional and contemporary skin sewing, the sweeping cold of Arctic winters, and the vibrant tapestry of her culture. Her story celebrates heritage, the transformative nature of fashion, and the ripple effect of empowering indigenous youth to reach for their dreams.
2023 Artist in Business Leadership Fellow Denise Lajimodiere (Ojibwe, Metis) has worked tirelessly to shed light on Residential/Boarding School experiences among Native Americans and First Nations people through her career as a writer, artist and educator. Her stirring accounts of survivors, whom she's interviewed with empathy and diligence, urge us to listen to the whispers of history long ignored. Denise weaves her personal voyage with her cultural roots to unravel the stories that have scarred Indigenous communities. Her poetry is a testament to her healing journey, while her research casts light on the dark corridors of institutions such as Chimawa and Fort Totten. Through her artistic lens, Denise's mission to document these tales encompasses both the personal and the collective, ensuring that the echoes of the past will not fade into silence.
2023 Cultural Capital Fellow April Matson (Sicangu Lakota, Athabascan) takes us on a melodic journey that harmonizes the power of music with the vibrancy of LGBTQ and gender-diverse youth. She unravels her own story of rediscovery, embracing her Lakota and Atabascan roots and intertwining them with the cultural tapestry of the two-spirit identity. April’s conviction resonates in her work, where leadership is not just taught but is a melody passed through generations and where each chord struck is a reminder of the strength found in tradition and identity.
2023 Cultural Capital Fellow Delbert Anderson (Diné) is an accomplished musician creating jazz intertwined with the soul-stirring melodies of Native American music. Delbert Anderson takes us on an auditory journey that melds the rich narratives of the Dineé culture with the intricate improvisations of jazz. He shares his story of cultural exploration and musical innovation, from the formation of the Delbert Anderson Trio to its crescendo into a dynamic quartet. Celebrating the heritage of influential Native American musicians like Jacob C. Morgan and "Big Chief" Moore, Delbert unfolds a musical saga that honors his ancestors while forging new paths in the music world.
2023 Community Spirit Award Honoree Robert Charles Davidson (Haida, Tlingit) shares his journey as a Tlingit/Haida carver and a career of over 65 years. His life is a testament to the power of art in the revival of indigenous culture. His artistic roots stem from the teachings of his father and grandfather, who instilled in him the importance of their own way of carving in the Haida style. Robert shares the significance of traditional ceremonies and how his artistic practice became the bridge to reconnect with one's roots and inspire subsequent generations of Haida and Tlingit carvers and artists.
Join us as we learn from 2023 Cultural Capital Fellow Kelly Rose O'Bennick (Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes), a multi-talented artist doing just that with her passion for traditional moccasin making. Drawing from her sobriety journey, Kelly is on a mission to reintroduce traditional attire into everyday life, fostering cultural pride and connection. Delve into her journey and discover the significance of moccasins as a symbol of cultural roots.
2023 Cultural Capital Fellow Sequoia Hauck (Anishinaabe), a queer, Native, two-spirit filmmaker with a deep love for Indigenous storytelling, strives to create stories by and for Native people. Sequoia shares details of their current film project, Never Turn Your Back to the Wave - the Travis Jordan Story - a poignant series touching on the tragic loss of loved ones due to police brutality in the Native community where Sequoia touches upon the tragedy of Travis Jordan's story while also primarily honoring and celebrating the departed.
2023 Cultural Capital Fellow Dan Nanamkin (Colville Confederated Tribes), an artist who creates with his hands and heart, shares his journey, which has led him to create work centered on the intersection of tradition and contemporary education, focusing on empowering Indigenous youth. He candidly talks about the trials of racism and the transformative power of composing songs in his tribal language - a process filled with nuances that could change a song's meaning.
Journey with us as we weave a tale that transcends time with 2023 Cultural Capital Fellow, Shawna Shandiin Sunrise (Diné, Kewa Pueblo), a fifth-generation weaver, community organizer, and educator, paints a vivid picture of her life, deeply rooted in Native ancestry and traditions. She unveils the secret wisdom of our forefathers, their unique ways of preserving knowledge, and how these teachings influence her multiple roles in her community where she teaches weaving and the values of reciprocity.
Prepare to be inspired by 2023 Artist in Business Leadership fellow, Cheri Williams (Anishinaabe), who will take you on an enlightening journey through her captivating garden. Cheri, a fervent gardener, will share her love for the transformative power of nature and how she beautifully captures it through photographs. Her plan to create a book showcasing these exquisite pictures aims to bring gardening to the fore of mainstream art forms.
Join us as we learn more about 2023 Artist in Business Leadership Fellow Chanel Gallagher (Ojibwe), who dared to swap her career in social work for her passion for pottery. Chanel's story, rich with the power of embracing her Indigenous roots and reconnecting with the earth through clay, will inspire and enlighten you. This episode will debunk age-old misconceptions about Ojibwe pottery, immersing you in the compelling history of Indigenous art.
Join us as we unravel the story of our guest, 2022 Community Spirit Awardee Ed Carriere (Suquamish) - a master of Suquamish style clam gathering basket weaving. A lineage passed down by her great grandma, Julia Jacob, our guest, has spent years perfecting the ancestral knowledge of this intricate art form, a testament to Indigenous resilience and creativity. From crafting baskets for gathering clams to more complex creations like eel trap baskets, Ed's journey provides a unique window into the lives and traditions of our ancestors.
Erin Tripp (Tlingit), 2023 Artist in Business Leadership Fellow - a talented actor, voice-over artist, and narrator, is on a mission to spotlight Indigenous narratives. Erin candidly shares his journey in performance arts, revealing the thrill and challenge of performing a long monologue. Erin’s love for stories is evident as he raves about his favorite play, Devilfish, and delves into his work narrating audiobooks. Their commitment to ensuring that native people voice their stories is a testament to his dedication to capturing authentic narratives.
Join us as we sit down with a remarkable artist and 2022 Artist in Business Leadership Fellow, Elexa Dawson (Potawatomi Nation) as she shares her journey, how she found her unique voice, and how she's using her music to heal generational trauma and promote connectivity. Elexa touches upon themes of resilience as she outlines her challenges as an independent artist amid a global pandemic and her strategies to overcome them, including training and networking with the First People's Fund.
Tune in as we get up close and personal with Silversmith and 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow Samuel La Fountain (Diné, Turtle Mountain Chippewa). Drawing from his engaging tales of familial ties to artistry, to the crucial mentorship from Gibson Nez, and the supportive Santa Fe art community, Samuel dissects his artistic journey. He openly shares the hurdles, triumphs, and dreams of establishing a jewelry teaching institute. You’ll be captivated as you learn the intricacies of navigating the world of Indigenous art and jewelry making.
Is the power of music and culture a force to be reckoned with? Unearth the answer with our guest 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow Leilehua Lanzilotti (Kanaka Maoli), a sound artist and musician whose creative process weaves a rich tapestry of Hawaiian language, culture, and community engagement. Leilehua shares her experience as a Pulitzer Prize finalist and the joy of recognition alongside fellow Indigenous artists. Leilehua shares the hardships artists face, particularly during times of crisis, like the recent devastating fires in Maui. Leilehua gives a candid account of how these pressures can impact the artistic community and the essential roles of self-care and community care. Learn about the ways you can extend your support to affected communities, from donating supplies to contributing to the Maui Strong Fund.
What happens when an Indigenous artist finds solace and healing in a traditional form of art? That's the fascinating story of our guest 2022 Cultural Capital Fellow, Thomas Stillday (Red Lake Nation - Obaashing Community) from the Red Lake Nation of Minnesota. Thomas shares his journey of learning beadwork, a tradition that has been in his family for generations. His story sheds light on his struggle with depression and how beading has been a therapeutic tool in his healing process.
Join us for an artistic journey as we take flight alongside 2022 Artist in Business Leadership Fellow Josephine Hoffman (Anishinaabe), an accomplished aerial dancer who's fearlessly painting the sky with her Indigenous roots. Josephine attributes her artistic leanings to her mother and grandmother, who filled her childhood with the colors of the natural world and indigenous culture. As she vividly narrates, Josephine’s innovative spirit led her to creatively merge her fancy shawl dancing heritage with aerial acrobatics, thanks to a well-utilized grant. But it’s not all about performance, Josie also actively engages with the youth, using her aerial rig as a tool to inspire them within their own communities.
Imagine being part of a project that seeks to bridge the gap between different cultures, form connections, share traditions, and give a voice to the underrepresented. That's the world our guest, 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow, Tara Gumapac, lives in daily. As an indigenous artist and teacher, she is pushing boundaries, building traditional hale on educational campuses, and advocating for her culture with the help of First People's Fund. Listen as Tara discloses her journey, inspiration, and the obstacles she’s had to overcome - including the enlightening path she walks with her two premature children and their unique needs.
And as you lean in, prepare to be taken further into Tara’s vibrant world. She brings to light an innovative project backed by the First People's Fund: "The Adventures of Ava and Duke". This initiative, designed to amplify the voices of Indigenous people, particularly Native Hawaiians, is using sensory storytelling to foster understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures, both locally and globally. Tara's ambitious goal of creating inclusive books for indigenous children, incorporating elements like braille and sensory experiences, is inspiring. This isn't just about storytelling or creating art; it’s about enhancing connections and understanding. So join us, and let's explore Tara's dream of creating a legacy that bridges cultures, one story at a time.
2022 Community Spirit Awardee Mr. Charlie Soap (Cherokee Nation), shares his insight on how his community and cultural identity shaped his life in community organizing and storytelling. Mr. Soap has dedicated virtually his entire career to working to strengthen the many Cherokee communities in northeastern Oklahoma. Serving under three chiefs, he served as the community service group leader for the Cherokee Nation, overseeing a $100 million budget dedicated to public transit services, roads, bridges and infrastructure projects, environmental health services, self-help housing assistance, youth programs and natural disaster relief.
2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow, Jodi Webster (Ho-Chunk Nation, Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation), is a jeweler based in Arizona who is pushing the creative envelope through her use of materials and technology which has disrupted mainstream assumptions of Native American people, art and culture. She is currently exploring the making and revitalization of Woodland jewelry indicative of the designs used by tribal nations of the Great Lakes region with the use of CAD software and 3D printing.
Madie Goodnight (Chickasaw) is a multidisciplinary artist based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. With support and guidance from her family and her community, Madie’s career has flourished as an illustrator of children’s books. Madie offers insight into her career path and how her career as an illustrator continues to be inspired by the warmth and freedom of childhood memories and the stories of her Chickasaw community.
Ursala Hudson(Tlingit) is a regalia/fashion designer whose work is a continuation of Tlingit heritage through Chilkat and Ravenstail weaving. Ursala hails from a long line of respected weavers and in this episode, she shares how her identity is strongly shaped by her experiences as a woman, mother, artist, and Tlingit person in this world.
Alan Wallace (Nisenan Maidu, Washoe) is a multidisciplinary artist whose work is centered on reversing the Nisenan language decline in his community through his creative practice. Wallace takes a philosophical retrospective in this episode in examining his life, influences, and the path ahead in his practice and its legacy in his community.
Carrie Moran McCleary (Little Shell Chippewa), the owner of Plains Soul - a Native-owned fashion design studio based in Montana, has spent a lifetime honing her skills in beadwork, leatherwork, and fashion design. Carrie’s work is strongly influenced by her heritage, family, and community and is reflected in her ongoing commitment to pursuing her artistic and entrepreneurial goals.
Emma Hildebrand(Northway Tribe) works in quillwork, beadwork, leather, and carving which are among the traditional materials and artistic mediums of her people in Alaska. In this episode, Emma looks at her roots which continue to inspire her desire to teach and perpetuate the language and cultural practices of her people.
Shayna Grandbois Herrera(Turtle Mountain Chippewa) is a sculptor based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. In this episode, Shayna discusses how her work as a sculptor upholds the teachings and influence of her family. Grandbois Herrera is a 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow with First Peoples Fund.
Shawn Brigman (Spokane) is a cultural recovery artist based in Spokane, Washington. In this episode, Shawn shares how his academic background in architecture and his work with the youth in his community continues to guide his work in recovering the material culture, stories, and language of his community. Shawn is a 2022 Community Spirit Award honoree.
About the EpisodeStacy Wells (Choctaw) is a children’s author and a youth librarian. In this episode, Wells describes her forthcoming books for children, as well as the challenges of publishing Choctaw stories. Wells is a 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow with First Peoples Fund.
About the ArtistAs a young child, Stacy Wells (Choctaw) loved spending time with one of her many cousins playing games and telling stories at family get-togethers. She is all grown up now, but she hasn’t lost her spirit for stories (or for her cousins). Wells spends her days as a youth librarian reading books at storytime or finding the ‘just right book’ for young readers. By night, she writes stories that capture the joy and wonder of childhood. Her books center around her Choctaw heritage and are written for all to enjoy. Stacy lives in Texas with her family, including her red dog named Blu and a playful ferret that goes by Stan. Learn more about 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow Stacy Wells at www.firstpeoplesfund.org/stacy-v-wells
About the EpisodeDel Curman (Crow Tribe of Montana) is a painter based in Sante Fe, New Mexico. In this episode, Curfman describes his evolution as a painter and how contemporary Native stories strengthen his work. Curfman is a 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow with First Peoples Fund.
About the ArtistDel Curman (Crow Tribe of Montana) views his Apsáalooke heritage as a gift and a blessing. Family is how Curfman connects to and learns about Apsáalooke culture. Curfman’s artwork is inspired by his roots and by his Kaale’ (grandmother), who taught him to love and be curious about his culture. As a result, Curfman is driven to paint and champion the American Indian people. Learn more about 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow Del Curfman at www.firstpeoplesfund.org/del-curfman
About the EpisodeWetalu Rodriguez (Nimiipuu) is a beader and seamstress of powwow and traditional regalia. Moreover, Rodriguez is a scholar and has led research about the mental and emotional health of Indigenous people. In this episode, Rodriguez advocates how sewing, beading, and her community work heals her people. Rodriguez is a 2022 Cultural Capital fellow with First Peoples Fund.
Content Warning: This episode discusses academic research on suicide ideation and cultural genocide of Indigenous people.
About the ArtistWetalu Rodriguez – also known as ‘alíwtalaliktnacan’may, meaning “Winter Sunset” – descends from the Nez Perce Nation. Rodriguez works from her original homelands in Lapwai, Idaho. At 8-years-old, Rodriguez learned the loom beading technique, and her skills evolved into lazy stitch and straight stitch when she was 13-years-old. Rodriguez is a beader and seamstress of powwow and traditional regalia. Learn more about 2022 Cultural Capital fellow Wetalu Rodriguez at www.firstpeoplesfund.org/wetalu-rodriguez
About the EpisodeAveda Adara (Diné) is a musician, DJ, vlogger, performance artist, and host of the Two Spirit Podcast. In this episode, Adara discusses how her sobriety and the LGBTQ+ community inspire her creativity. Adara is a 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow with First Peoples Fund.
About the ArtistAveda Adara is a member of the Diné tribe, born into Kiyaa'áanii (Towering House Clan) and Díbéłzhíní (Black Sheep Clan). Adara is a performance artist, DJ, vlogger, and host of the Two-Spirit Podcast. Her recent performances include Cell Lust with Contemporary Arts Museum Houston and DJing for the International Drag Festival. Her art has been featured at Jomar Visions and the Shape of Things Gallery. Adara has worked with Dinolion, a production studio, for social media marketing campaigns and music videos. Learn more about 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow Aveda Adara at www.firstpeoplesfund.org/aveda-adara
About the EpisodeTsanavi Spoonhunter (Northern Paiute Tribe, Northern Arapaho Tribe) is a journalist and documentary filmmaker. In this episode, Spoonhunter discusses the hardships and hopes of filming her award-winning short documentary film Crow Country: Our Right to Food Sovereignty. Spoonhunter is a 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow with First Peoples Fund. About the ArtistJournalist and filmmakerTsanavi Spoonhunter is a descendant of the Northern Paiute Tribe, and a citizen of the Northern Arapaho Tribe. Her ancestry and upbringing in Indian Country have strongly informed her storytelling and artistic vision. In 2020, Spoonhunter earned her master’s degree from the Graduate School of Journalism at the University of California, Berkeley with a focus in documentary filmmaking. Her award-winning documentary short Crow Country: Our Right to Food Sovereignty is currently screening at festivals and select venues. She is also working on her first feature film titled Holder of the Sky. When she’s not reporting a story or filming behind a camera, she spends her time reconnecting with her traditions. Spoonhunter often attends cultural events with her family and practices traditional artistry like basket weaving and beading. She is passionate about her culture and strives to honor it through her professional and personal projects. Learn more about 2022 Artist in Business Leadership fellow Tsanavi Spoonhunter at www.firstpeoplesfund.org/tsanavi-spoonhunter
About the EpisodeBlossom Johnson (Diné) is the playwright of A Boarding School Play and monster SLAYer, among other works. In this episode, Johnson discusses how she balances the positives and pains of crafting Indigenous stories for the stage. Johnson is a 2022 Cultural Capital fellow with First Peoples Fund.
About the ArtistBlossom Johnson is a Diné storyteller, playwright, teaching artist, and screenwriter. She is from The Yé’ii Dine’é Táchii’nii (Giant People) clan, and her maternal grandfather is from the Deeshchíí’nii (Start of the Red Streak People) clan.
Blossom holds an MFA in Dramaturgy from Columbia University and a BA in Theatre from Arizona State University. She is a proud member of the Dramatists Guild and the Literary Managers and Dramaturgs of the Americans (LMDA). Blossom has been commissioned by AlterTheatre Ensemble and has been awarded a residency with Willowtail Springs/Durango PlayFest. She is excited to make a smooth transition from theater to film narrative with the In Progress NEXUS Program in St. Paul, MN. Additionally, she is proud to be a recipient of The Playwrights’ Center 2022-2023 Jerome Fellowship.
She was raised by her grandmother on the very top of Dził Yijiin (Black Mesa), AZ, and she’s always been surrounded by stories. When she opens the front door of her grandma’s yellow house, she can see a coal mine. Below the mesa is an old run-down restaurant where her mother used to hustle as a waitress during the summer in her teen years, and there is an old store where her grandmother would up-sale her handmade jewelry to tourists by the entrance. The restaurant and the store have now been closed for years because what was taken from the earth was diminished, so no one stayed, and they eventually went out of business. The people that stayed are Diné and their stories — her stories — are thriving. When she creates, she writes for her people and the stories she writes come from memories, experiences, and family history. In her writing, she reveals truths that are hard to face. She balances the darkness with humor, so the viewer has a chance to breathe and laugh.
Learn more about 2022 Cultural Capital fellow Blossom Johnson at www.firstpeoplesfund.org/blossom-johnson