Why Give?
Why should you spend your donation dollars with us?
Imagine pouring your heart and soul into creating something beautiful, a piece of art that carries generations of stories, heritage, and identity. Now, imagine that very creation is held back by an invisible barrier: money.
For countless Native American artists, this isn’t a hypothetical. It’s a stark reality. Research from the First Peoples Fund reveals a heartbreaking truth: an estimated 30% of all Native peoples are practicing or potential artists, yet far too many live below the poverty line. Their art contributes vital income to their households, but for most, it’s not enough to fully support their families. They lack the fundamental privilege of being full-time professional artists, dedicating their lives entirely to their craft.
The dream of showcasing their work, connecting with collectors, and sharing their culture often collides with an exponential financial burden. Attending even a small, local art market can be devastatingly expensive before a single piece is sold. Consider the costs: travel across vast distances, prohibitive booth fees, paid parking, modest accommodations, and meals. Then there are the essential marketing and promotional materials, and, of course, the art supplies themselves – the very tools of their trade. Many artists don’t even have the luxury of traveling alone; they must bring their children and family members to assist, incurring additional, painful costs for caregivers if they were to leave them behind.
Yet, these markets are not just events; they are lifelines. Places like the iconic Santa Fe Indian Market are crucial platforms where Native American artists can finally unveil their masterpieces, forge direct connections with buyers, and, most importantly, safeguard and revitalize their cultural heritage. These markets are where artists can sell directly, bypassing gallery commissions and ensuring every penny of a sale goes directly back to them – to their families, to their artistic practice, and to their communities. Even for longtime professional artists, these sales form the bedrock of their annual income.
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