10 Native American Artists You Should Know

Native American Heritage Month, also known as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, is a special observance in the United States held in November. Its primary aim is to celebrate and honor the diverse cultures, traditions, histories, and contributions of Native Americans, who are the indigenous peoples of North America. This recognition serves several important purposes, including cultural preservation, educational awareness, and honoring the significant contributions of Native Americans to the nation.

The month is a means of preserving the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples, encompassing languages, arts, music, dances, clothing, and traditional practices that have significantly influenced the country's cultural tapestry. It also acts as a platform for increasing public awareness and understanding of Native American history, helping to dispel misconceptions and stereotypes while highlighting the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities throughout history and in contemporary times.

Additionally, Native American Heritage Month is a time to acknowledge and appreciate the substantial contributions of Native Americans to the United States in various fields, such as agriculture, medicine, art, sports, politics, and more. It encourages the promotion of Indigenous art, literature, music, and creative expression and demonstrates respect and recognition for the sovereign nations and distinct Indigenous communities within the country. This month fosters cultural exchange and understanding between Native and non-Native communities, promotes intercultural relationships, and supports Indigenous communities through various events, educational programs, and partnerships. The observance originated from the efforts of Native American advocates and was officially declared in 1990 by President George H.W. Bush, continuing to be a time for communities, schools, universities, and organizations across the United States to celebrate Native American heritage and enhance awareness and understanding.

And to celebrate this month, we share a list of 10 native American artists.

1. Fritz Scholder (Luiseno): A celebrated painter, Scholder is known for his bold and contemporary representations of Native American subjects.

2. Sherman Alexie (Spokane/Coeur d'Alene): A highly acclaimed writer, Alexie is known for his novels, short stories, and poetry that explore themes of identity and contemporary Native American life.

3. R.C. Gorman (Navajo): Gorman was a prominent painter and sculptor, best known for his elegant depictions of Navajo women and their culture.

4. Joy Harjo (Muscogee Creek): Joy Harjo is a poet and musician who became the first Native American U.S. Poet Laureate. Her work delves into issues of identity, place, and Indigenous culture.

5. Maria Tallchief (Osage): Tallchief was the first Native American prima ballerina, known for her exceptional talent in ballet. She performed with the New York City Ballet.

6. Kay WalkingStick (Cherokee): An accomplished artist, WalkingStick is known for her abstract landscape paintings and her influence on contemporary Native American art.

7. Buffy Sainte-Marie (Cree): A renowned singer-songwriter and activist, Sainte-Marie's music and advocacy work address issues such as Indigenous rights and social justice.

8. George Morrison (Ojibwa): Morrison was a celebrated modernist painter and sculptor who contributed significantly to the field of American abstract art.

9. Tommy Orange (Cheyenne/Arapaho): A contemporary writer, Orange's debut novel, "There There," has received critical acclaim for its exploration of the urban Native American experience.

10. Benjamin Harjo Jr. (Absentee Shawnee/Seminole): Harjo is known for his unique and innovative paintings that often blend traditional and contemporary Indigenous themes.

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