Inside the Wicahpi Olowan Studio’s Mission to Uplift Musicians

The Wicahpi Olowan Music Program and Studio (WOMPS) is an innovative initiative designed to empower and support Indigenous musicians by providing them free access to professional-grade studio equipment, services, and programs. 

Operating out of the Oglala Lakota Artspace (OLA) on the Pine Ridge Reservation, WOMPS offers artists a welcoming environment to create and collaborate. Through events like workshops, open mics, jam sessions, weekly drum circles, and seasonal showcases tied to celebrations, the studio has established itself as a creative hub for artists in all areas of their careers. 

In addition to encouraging artistic expression, WOMPS connects artists with other programs like the Native Artist Professional Development (NAPD) workshop to help them elevate their careers. 

“Our goal with WOMPS is to create a model that shows other Indigenous communities what’s possible when we put collaboration and abundance at the forefront,” Talon Ducheneaux, WOMPS’ Program Manager, said. “Music is vital to our identities and storytelling traditions, so creating a space where artists feel supported to explore and grow is transformative.”

“Music is vital to our identities and storytelling traditions, so creating a space where artists feel supported to explore and grow is transformative.”

Talon hopes the initiative can serve as a framework for other communities, sharing how creative spaces can encourage collaboration, dismantle scarcity mindsets, and redefine music rooted in Indigenous identities.  

Among WOMPS’ new programs is the Visiting Arts Program, which offers musicians a six-month stipend to support their work and creative growth. Talon shared that the program’s no-strings-attached approach is intentional, allowing artists to focus on their work without pressure to meet external requirements. 

“We want to prioritize artists’ needs and give them the freedom to define what success means for them,” Talon said. The program’s first participants, Reed Two Bulls of the Wake Singers and William Thunderhorse of Isolated South, bring distinctive styles that encapsulate the South Dakota landscape and work on projects that will resonate with audiences. 

“We want to prioritize artists’ needs and give them the freedom to define what success means for them,”

The Oglala Lakota Artspace Artist in Residence (AiR) program at WOMPS has also seen success, with recent participants creating diverse and meaningful works. Elizabeth Skye (Lakota Kikyo), the first musician AiR at OLA, recorded an album that includes collaborations with other Indigenous artists. At the same time, 9a (Nyna Matowin) has completed a round-dance album entirely in the Lakota language.

Other artists, like Conquest (Jacob Bianas) and Jar Cottier (Light/Hearted), have used their residences to create new projects and refine their craft. Talon emphasized that the program prioritizes artists’ autonomy, allowing them to define their goals and measure success on their terms.

“We’re not here to impose a standard of success on productivity on anyone,” he said, “it’s about creating a space where artists can dream big and take the time to bring those dreams to life.” 

“We’re not here to impose a standard of success on productivity on anyone,” he said, “it’s about creating a space where artists can dream big and take the time to bring those dreams to life.” 

Looking ahead, WOMPS is preparing for the Winter Solstice event at the Oglala Lakota Artspace, where all four Artists in Residence will showcase their work. This event highlights the various talents within the community, offering attendees a chance to experience life performances by musicians of different styles and genres. 

Besides events, Talon sees a future where WOMPS continues challenging the music industry by prioritizing Indigenous art and culture. Whether through collaborations with other studios, a rez-wide music tour, or hosting artists across Turtle Island, WOMPS aims to expand opportunities for Indigenous musicians nationwide.  

“We’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible. I dream of seeing Indigenous music celebrated not as a niche genre but as a vibrant, evolving part of the global music landscape. WOMPS is here to lead that movement,” Talon said. 

“We’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible. I dream of seeing Indigenous music celebrated not as a niche genre but as a vibrant, evolving part of the global music landscape. WOMPS is here to lead that movement,”

At its center, WOMPS is about creating a sense of belonging and possibility for artists. Through its commitment to collaboration, growth, and cultural preservation, WOMPS ensures that Indigenous voices are heard and celebrated. 

An Update to the WOMPS Program

Since this article was writte, we are pleased to provide an exciting update to our friends and supporters: First Peoples Fund is thrilled to share that several talented artists from the Wicahpi Olowan Music Program and Studio (WOMPS) have been nominated for the prestigious Native American Music Awards (NAMMYs)!

We couldn’t be prouder of these incredible artists and their achievements over the past year. Let’s come together to show our support and celebrate their hard work, creativity, and dedication. This includes the following artists: Tiana Spotted Thunder, William Thunderhorse, Colton Sierra, Elizabeth Skye (with Mato Wayuhi), Cyrus Stone & (posthumously) Franklin Adams, Kyle Mesteth, Juliana Brown Eyes, Terrance Jade, Dawson Rooks, Nyna Matowin, and Santee Witt. A special acknowledgment to Talon Bazille Ducheneaux—one album, 12 nominations!

Take a moment to cast your vote for your favorite WOMPS-affiliated artist here: https://bit.ly/4i35ztA

Congratulations to all the nominees—your success is an inspiration to us all!