Indigenous Peoples Art & Artists

Overview of the Indigenous Peoples Art & Artists program:

The Indigenous Peoples Art and Artists (IPAA) program by SK Arts is designed to support Indigenous artists, arts professionals, and arts collectives who are Saskatchewan residents and identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit. The program provides funding for a wide array of artistic activities including the creation of new work, professional development, community-engaged projects, and the presentation of artistic works. It places strong emphasis on supporting both traditional and contemporary Indigenous art forms. Artists working in disciplines such as visual, media, music, theatre, dance, literary, and interdisciplinary arts are eligible to apply. This program also supports mentorships and projects that involve cultural practices, including storytelling, beading, drum making, or performance rooted in Indigenous traditions. Collaborative and community-based art activities are encouraged, particularly those that foster knowledge sharing, cultural revitalization, and intergenerational engagement. IPAA is structured to ensure accessibility and flexibility for applicants, recognizing the diverse realities of Indigenous creators. Applications are juried by Indigenous artists, ensuring cultural relevancy and peer recognition. The program funds a wide range of project costs, such as materials, artist fees, mentorship honorariums, travel, and presentation costs.

Benefits of the Indigenous Peoples Art & Artists program:

• Applicants may request up to $20,000 CAD per application. The funding covers project-based activities and there is no minimum amount specified.

Eligibility criteria of the Indigenous Peoples Art & Artists program:

• To be eligible for the Indigenous Peoples Art and Artists Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Applicants must self-identify as First Nations, Metis, or Inuit.
• Must be a resident of Saskatchewan for at least one year prior to the application deadline.
• Eligible applicants include individual artists, arts professionals, and Indigenous arts collectives.
• Arts collectives must be Indigenous-led and consist of at least 50% Indigenous members.
• Applicants must be actively practicing in an artistic discipline with a demonstrated history of work.
• Individuals must be at least 18 years old.
• Applicants must not be in default with SK Arts and must submit final reports for previous funding before applying again.
• Projects must align with the objectives of promoting Indigenous cultural and artistic practice.
• Academic projects or coursework for formal education are not eligible.