Submissions are OPEN: 2026 Creative Native Call for Art

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CNAY is excited to announce the 9th annual Creative Native Call for Art! We are accepting submissions now through December 20, 2026.

Creative Native celebrates a cornerstone of many Indigenous cultures by providing space and support for artists between the ages of 5 and 24 years old to showcase their talents. All artists who submit artwork will be featured in the CNAY Creative Native Gallery and have the opportunity to receive national recognition and a categorical award of $300. One artist between the ages of 16 and 24 will also be recognized as the grand prize winner, and receive $1,000.

2026 submissions should be inspired by the following prompt:

What does an Indigenous Future look like to you? What does your Indigenous future include? Does it look like crisp and clean flowing rivers full of fish? Does it look like bountiful fields of traditional foods? Does it look like traditional Indigenous languages being spoken by all? All interpretations welcome!

Recognizing the diversity in artistic expression among individuals and tribes, all interpretations of the prompt and art mediums are welcomed. This includes, but is not limited to: painting, drawing, pottery, photography, sculpture and traditional works such as beadwork, jewelry, regalia, silversmithing and carving.

Featured art is by 2025 Creative Native Category Winner, Nizhoni Toledo (Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation).

The Creative Native Call for Art will continue accepting submissions until 11:59pm EST on December 20, 2026.

GET STARTED

Who is Eligible?

  • Native American or Indigenous;
  • Between the ages of 5 and 24 years old on December 20, 2026; and
  • Currently reside in the United States

How to Enter?

  • Read the full Creative Native Call for Art Rules & Guidelines
  • Get creative! Develop an original piece inspired what is sacred to you
  • Submit a high-resolution image of your art and complete the Creative Native Call for Art Entry Form by 11:59pm EST on December 20, 2026

Questions? Please refer to the FAQ page or contact CNAY staff (cnayinfo@aspeninstitute.org).