Native Arts and Cultures Foundation (NACF)

Mission

The Native Arts + Cultures Foundation advances equity and cultural knowledge, focusing on the power of arts and collaboration to strengthen Native communities and promote positive social change with American Indian, Native Hawaiian, and Alaska Native peoples in the United States.

Bottom Line for Portland

Support visionary Indigenous artists and culture bearers working to strengthen Native communities in Portland, across the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. At the Native Arts + Cultures Foundation, we know that Indigenous artists and culture bearers are leading powerful conversations through creative expression, bringing valuable perspective to contemporary life, and inspiring healing across cultural divides. We help Native artists by providing direct financial support, professional development, and marketing and promotional support, while creating opportunities for our greater community to engage with this incredible work at the Center for Native Arts + Cultures in Portland, OR.

Quote

This year, we have witnessed firsthand how art serves not just as a reflection of our identity, but as a catalyst for social change, healing, and community empowerment. Our work has illuminated the pressing issues of our time; climate change, representation, and the preservation of our languages. With each brushstroke, note, and word, Indigenous artists are contributing to a collective narrative of resilience.

Our journey is far from over. The challenges our artists face continue to grow. In an era where resources are scarce and the struggle for representation is real, your support is crucial. By contributing to NACF, you are not just donating; you are actively participating in the revival of our cultural heritage and ensuring that our voices resonate in the global art world.

-Shyla Spicer (Yakama)

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Native Arts + Cultures Foundation is a Native-founded, Native-led nonprofit and the only national organization of its kind that positions Native arts and cultures at the apex of its justice and equity work. We serve Indigenous artists, culture bearers, and their communities. Native representation at every level of our organization is critical to our mission-based work.

Incentives

Become a member for only $120! Any gift of $120 or more is eligible for a NACF membership. As a member of NACF, you will be part of the vital network of support needed to sustain our work in the future. At NACF, members experience more! You will receive access to special events, a complimentary copy of our quarterly magazine, as well as an artful welcoming gift. Your membership gift is fully tax-deductible. 

Partner(s)

We are partnering with Coldstream to provide matching funds totaling $3,000. Every dollar donated up to $3,000 will be matched 1:1 due to their generosity. 

This year NACF is proud to be working with our fellow nonprofit partners: Friends of Noise, Underscore Native News, and National Indian Child Welfare Association(NICWA).

Above Image: Installation view, Citizen Fellow: Art as Archive and Memory. From top: Anna Tsouhlarakis (Navajo/Creek/Greek), The Native Guide Project, 2019 - ongoing,  Brenda Mallory (Cherokee Nation), New Release, 2015. Photo by Kevin McConnell