New generation of artists emerge

PHOENIX – A Heard Museum tradition for 13 years and one of the largest art shows in the country dedicated to Native youth, the Student Art Show & Sale held April 5-9 included more than 1,700 works of young Native artists across North America. The annual show provided American Indian students not only with the opportunity to explore a variety of creative processes, but also the chance to market and sell their artwork, both valuable lessons on the road toward professional artist status. For many, it was an important step in developing self-confidence in their artistic abilities. For others, the show helped open the door to a career in art.

This event offered an unparalleled selection of artwork for viewing and purchase. With entries from as far away as Alaska and Canada, this exhibition and sale offered an excellent opportunity to see what the next generation of Native artists is creating.

In many cases, the students were influenced by a familial heritage rich in both culture and art. The show featured a wide range of traditional and contemporary art forms – from weavings, pottery and katsina doll carvings to paintings, photography and sculpture. The artwork by students in grades 5 to 12 was judged by a panel of top artists in a juried competition format, and winners received cash prizes and ribbons. College scholarships and school art grants were available to event participants. The students price their own pieces and receive the majority of the proceeds from the sale of their individual artwork. Over the years more than $225,000 has been returned to students from the sale of their artwork.

Monies for scholarships and school art program grants are raised through the sale of student art notecards – cards featuring artwork by students. Begun in 1992, the notecards feature works of art entered in the annual show – four new images are selected yearly. The notecards are sold in the Museum Shop and Bookstore and on the museum grounds many weekends and during special events. More than $150,000 in grants and scholarships have been awarded.