Cultural Heritage in Contemporary Art

As we celebrate Indigenous expression and cultural enrichment, we are thrilled to spotlight three more fellows from the 2024 Cultural Capital (CC) and Artist in Business Leadership (ABL) programs.

The following artists represent how Indigenous creativity thrives through each fellow participating in our fellowships. These artists come from diverse backgrounds and artistic fields and showcase a deep passion for their craft and community. 

Cultural Capital

Kamali'ikūpono Hanohano, an ʻŌiwi Hawaiʻi/Native Hawaiian CC Fellow, practices traditional Hawaiian tattoo art of Kākau Uhi. Through Kamali'ikūpono's fellowship project he will explore the impact of traditional Hawaiian tattoos on individuals within the Native Hawaiian community. He will conduct video interviews to document the experiences of people from various lifestyles—teachers, cultural practitioners, and individuals with different religious or spiritual beliefs.

“I had an idea to showcase the effects of our traditional markings within our people and how they can serve as healing sparks,” Kamali'ikūpono said.

“I had an idea to showcase the effects of our traditional markings within our people and how they can serve as healing sparks,” Kamali'ikūpono said.

The project will be a short film that shares these perspectives, highlighting the significance and emotional impact of Kakau Uhi. By documenting these stories, he hopes to share the healing power of traditional Hawaiian tattoos with a broader audience, sharing a deeper appreciation for this cultural practice.

“We are accustomed to our history, our experience, and the events that have transpired here (Hawaii). It's nice to hear the first perspective on other Native peoples and maybe some of their experiences,” Kamali'ikūpono said.

Artist in Business Leadership

Richard D. York, an ABL fellow and a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, uses a diverse array of mediums in his art, including acrylic and oil paints, charcoal, graphite, and natural materials like deer, horse, and elk rawhide. His work spans painting, drawing, and the crafting of musical instruments like drums and flutes, connecting traditional techniques with contemporary practices.

“To me, art is about connecting with others, and it's kind of putting my experience out there to share with others and hopefully allowing them to bring themselves into that experience,” Richard said.

“To me, art is about connecting with others, and it's kind of putting my experience out there to share with others and hopefully allowing them to bring themselves into that experience,” Richard said.

For his fellowship project, Richard wants to enhance his online presence by establishing an online marketing strategy. He also plans to set up his print production space to avoid outsourcing costs. By purchasing a professional inkjet printer and supplies, he can control the quality and consistency of his prints, which will ultimately improve his online marketing and participation in art markets. 

“I just feel super grateful for the opportunity and the grant, but also for what this allows me to do in the community,” Richard said.

I just feel super grateful for the opportunity and the grant, but also for what this allows me to do in the community,” Richard said.

Richard's overall vision is to support youth and individuals in recovery by uplifting them to explore art as a meaningful hobby or career path. By sharing his knowledge through public presentations and classes, he wants to inspire others and create a sense of community and creativity.

Sabrina Saleha, a Diné ABL Fellow, represents her filmmaking, writing, and acting work. Her films highlight themes of identity and grief, yet are created to be light-hearted, aiming to shatter the stoic "Hollywood Indian" stereotype by infusing humor and hope into her narratives.

“TV and film historically have portrayed Native Americans as one-dimensional people of the past, which is both frustrating and couldn’t be further from the truth,” Sabrina said.

“TV and film historically have portrayed Native Americans as one-dimensional people of the past, which is both frustrating and couldn’t be further from the truth,” Sabrina said.

With the support of the fellowship grant, Sabrina’s will  direct her first short film, addressing the negative effects of Native American mascots on identity and community. Her goal is to create stories that capture Native humor and portray the rich diversity of Native American experiences, moving away from clichéd and inaccurate representations. 

“This fellowship has given me validation that my stories are worth telling,” Sabrina said.

“This fellowship has given me validation that my stories are worth telling,” Sabrina said.

The Cultural Capital and Artist in Business Leadership Fellowships support artists like Kamaliikupono, Richard, and Sabrina, helping them pursue their creative work while honoring their culture. These programs not only offer financial support but also provide a platform for these artists to amplify their voices and share their unique perspectives.

Each fellow adds to a broader narrative of resilience, creativity, and cultural preservation through their respective mediums. They show the transformative power of art in promoting understanding and appreciation for Indigenous cultures.