Nominations Sought For Community Spirit Awards

Jan. 22, 2008

RAPID CITY - First Peoples Fund, a national nonprofit organization, invites you to nominate an artist from your American Indian community for their ninth annual Community Spirit Award, recognizing individuals who have made substantial contributions to their communities. Following a rigorous selection process, four individuals will be honored with a $5,000 fellowship.

"Community Spirit" is an expression that speaks of the unselfish generosity and reciprocated love these artists have for their Indian community. The same spirit that guides artists' work also drives them to do service in their communities. This process of bringing spirit back to the community is part of a sacred honor system that First Peoples Fund works to strengthen through recognition of these artists. Community Spirit also describes the teaching of gifts that promote and sustain indigenous cultures. Recipients of this award must demonstrate these acts of Community Spirit through their art form. First Peoples Fund seeks artists who demonstrate these values we hold strongly:

deeply rooted and maintain direct ties to their tribal community

a commitment to building the strength of native communities by sharing their skills and talents with others in their respective communities

an artistic practice that passes on the traditions and the life ways of the people.

Nominated artists must be: practicing artists of demonstrated maturity in their field, continually practicing artists for a minimum of 10 years and be a documented affiliate of a United States tribe. In addition to Visual Arts, First Peoples Fund also recognizes traditional forms of Performing Arts and Literary Arts.

To nominate: Send enclosed postcard to FPF, P.O. Box 2977, Rapid City, SD 57709-2977. Postcard must include complete addresses of both nominee and nominator and must be postmarked by April 11, or you may nominate your candidate online at Online Nominations Any incomplete nominations will not be considered. In late April, First Peoples Fund will mail an application for completion by both nominee and nominator.

For more information contact: Miranne Walker, Officer Manager, First Peoples Fund, P.O. Box 2977, Rapid City, SD 57709, Miranne Walker (605) 348-0324, First Peoples Fund First Peoples Fund - My Space