The Walker Youngbird Foundation is proud to announce its second grant opportunity, offering $15,000 to early and emerging Native American artists. The grant aims to provide financial resources, mentorship, and visibility to Indigenous creators blending tradition with contemporary artistic expression. Applications are now open and will close on February 19th.

The Walker Youngbird Foundation officially launched late last year with a mission to support and elevate Indigenous artists by providing critical resources, mentorship, and platforms for creative expression. The foundation seeks to amplify Indigenous voices in contemporary art, ensuring their cultural narratives are recognized and celebrated on a global stage.

Founder Reid Walker, a member of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation, established the foundation to address the underrepresentation of Native artists in the mainstream art world. “I founded the Walker Youngbird Foundation to ensure that Indigenous artists receive the visibility and support they deserve,” said Walker. “Our goal is to celebrate the richness of Native cultures while empowering artists to share their creativity and stories with the world.”

The foundation’s inaugural launch event took place in Miami during Art Basel, where it showcased its first featured artist, Muscogee painter George Alexander. Originally from Oklahoma and now based in Santa Fe, Alexander’s work seamlessly weaves traditional heritage with contemporary storytelling, reflecting the foundation’s mission to highlight the depth and diversity of Indigenous artistry.

The selected artist will receive $15,000 over six months to develop a creative work, gain mentorship from established artists and industry professionals, and participate in two showcase events highlighting their work for curators, collectors, and gallerists.

“Native artists have historically been underrepresented in the art world, making up less than 1% of those featured in major U.S. art institutions,” said Reid Walker, Founder of the Walker Youngbird Foundation. “For early and emerging artists, this grant isn’t just financial support—it’s a step toward breaking through systemic barriers, building connections, and accessing opportunities that can lead to lasting visibility and success.”

The Walker Youngbird Foundation is dedicated to addressing these representation gaps in contemporary art. Its previous grantee, Muskogee-Creek artist George Alexander, has benefited from the foundation’s support. Featured at the foundation’s launch event in Miami during Art Basel, Alexander’s work explores themes of identity and heritage, offering valuable perspectives on contemporary Native issues.

“The Walker Youngbird Foundation has been a cornerstone in my journey, offering invaluable support and opportunities that have elevated my art to new heights,” said Alexander. “Their commitment to fostering Native voices has not only strengthened my practice but also enriched my creative experience in ways I never imagined. I am truly grateful for their dedication and the impact they’ve had on my career.”

The grant is open to Native American artists from all tribal nations, as well as Native Hawaiian, Alaska Native, and First Nations artists from Canada. For more information or to apply, visit www.walkeryoungbird.org/grants.