Local Native artists invited to First Peoples Fund business training this month

MAHNOMEN, Minnesota—Native artists are invited to attend a free two-day training this March designed to promote, enhance and market their work on the White Earth Reservation, and around the country.

In partnership with the First Peoples Fund, a national Native organization committed to supporting and honoring American Indian artists, the Region 2 Arts Council will host a Native Artist Professional Development Training session at White Earth Tribal and Community College in Mahnomen, Minnesota, March 21-22, 2014.

The training is free to artists, and advanced registration is encouraged at http://www.firstpeoplesfund.org. At the two-day training, artists will learn how to market their art, set budgets and pricing structures, develop a business plan, and more.

“This training will equip Native artist entrepreneurs, no matter what stage they are at in their career, with the tools to enhance their skills, effectively promote their art, and establish their goals and vision,” said Logan Anderson, program manager for non-profit partnerships at First Peoples Fund. “We hope that artists on the White Earth Reservation see the incredible potential and cultural value in their work, and will take advantage of this opportunity.”

Laura Dehler-Seter, program coordinator for the Region 2 Arts Council, said that is exactly what happened during a similar training in November through First Peoples Fund. Ten artists gathered to work through First Peoples Fund’s curriculum, which is based on viewing the business of art as a way of cultural leadership in communities as well as a viable economic engine for individuals and families.

Artists from all levels of discipline and experience attended the November training, including one man who has a great passion for his art, but has not marketed his work.

“At the end of the day, each person gave their artist statement and showed a piece of their art. He blew everybody away,” Dehler-Seter said. “The presenters were very moved. He was so authentic and that was substantiated in that workshop. It was very powerful.”

The Region 2 Council is one of 11 regional art councils serving the state, and serves parts of three reservations. First Peoples Fund, Dehler-Seter added, has been a strong proponent of local Native artists expanding their reach beyond the borders of the region.

“It would be my hope that if artists want to get their art into the community and outside of the community, and it’s their wish and hope to have their art valued monetarily, that they would be able to get more financial gain and recognition,” she said. “These trainings would give them concrete skills for that.”

For more information on the training, call Laura Dehler-Seter at (218) 751-5447 or visit http://www.firstpeoplesfund.org.

IF YOU GO

First Peoples Fund Native Artist Professional Development Training

Friday, March 21 and Saturday, March 22, 2014

8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days

White Earth Tribal and Community College

Cultural Hall 2250

2250 College Road

Mahnomen, Minnesota