Champions for Change
Remembering Our Sisters
Brave Heart
California Native Youth Collective
Building Communities of Hope
Creative Native
Democracy is IndigenousHighlighting the creativity and expression of young Indigenous artists
About the Program
The Creative Native Call for Art by the Center for Native American Youth (CNAY) celebrates a cornerstone of many Indigenous cultures by providing space and support for young Native artists, ages 5-24, to showcase their talents.
Recognizing the diversity in artistic expression among tribes, all mediums are welcomed. This includes, but is not limited to: painting, drawing, pottery, sculpture, photography and traditional works (beadwork, jewelry, regalia, silversmithing and carving).
Aiyana Beaulieu (Red Lake Band of Chippewa), 2024 Grand Prize Winner.
Learn More
The call was established in 2018 by former Fellow and renowned artist Del Curfman (Apsáalooke). We thank Del for his commitment to the arts. Each year, CNAY asks Native youth to submit art inspired by a unique prompt. The 8th annual Creative Native Call for Art asked What is sacred to you?
All artists who submit will be featured in the Creative Native Gallery and have the opportunity to receive national recognition and a categorical award of $300. One artist between the ages of 15 and 24 will also be recognized as the grand prize winner, and receive $1,000.
Read more about previous winners:
- Center for Native American Youth Announces 2024 Creative Native Winners
- Announcing the 2023 Creative Native Art Winners
Submission Eligibility
- Self-identify as Native American or Indigenous
- Between the ages of 5 and 24 years old (on the application deadline)
- Currently reside in the United States
Winner Categories*
- 5 to 9 years old
- 10 to 14 years old
- 15 to 19 years old
- 20 to 24 years old
*To be eligible for the grand prize, artists must be between the ages of 15 and 24.
The 8th annual Creative Native Call for Art by the Center for Native American Youth has closed. Winners will be announced the week of December 15, 2025. For more information about Creative Native, please review our complete list of Rules & Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), or contact Katy Stewart: katy.stewart@aspeninstitute.org.
