- Details
- By Kaili Berg
On February 10, the Center of Contemporary Art in Santa Fe, New Mexico, hosted ++ILLUMINATE++, a showcase of Indigenous creativity and empowerment organized by Native-owned sustainable art wear brand 4KINSHIP.
Teaming up with the International Museum of Dance (IMOD), ++ILLUMINATE++ was an immersive experience that blended light, movement, sound, and fashion.
The event raised funds for 4KINSHIP Indigenous Futures Fund, an initiative dedicated to reinvesting in Native-led events and amplifying Indigenous artists through media platforms.
"The essence of the 4KINSHIP Indigenous Futures Fund is being good relatives and amplifying opportunities through media,” Amy Denet Deal, founder of 4KINSHIP, told Native News Online. “We create safe spaces where Indigenous voices are heard, surrounded by family, to authentically share their stories. Often, our presence in mainstream spaces feels performative, so we prioritize honoring our identity and building supportive, creative environments as relatives."
The evening kicked off with a performance by Lucca, a two-spirit Afro-Indigenous musician and artist. Lucaa’s storytelling explored themes of identity, sexuality, and resilience. Joined by dancer Povi Martinez, Lucaa’s music came to life through emotive movement, setting the tone for an evening of profound artistic expression.
Throughout the event, the crowd was treated to hoop-dancing solos by James Jones and ShanDien Sonwai LaRance, accompanied by talented youth from the Lightning Boy Foundation.
Echota Killsnight and Conscious City Guide provided visual storytelling, while Josephine Pu-Sheng Wang’s illuminating light design added an extra layer of magic to the event.
Multifaceted artist Edwin Felter closed the show with a solo performance titled “Rez Dog Gospel,” leaving the audience in awe of his talent and creativity.
“Everyone did great. Some performances were raw, prompting a few to leave, but that’s a good sign. It means we’re addressing important truths for our city. With a Native-led organization running the show, we created a safe space for honesty. It’s time to be brave and speak out more,” Denet Deal said.
Denet Deal added that 4KINSHIP Indigenous Futures Fund aims to continue to amplify Indigenous creativity.
“The potential of Indigenous creativity surpasses our wildest imaginations. It requires unwavering support from all sides to pave the way for a transformative future,” she said.
A livestreamed recording of ++ILLUMINATE++ can be watched on 4KINSHIP’s YouTube channel.
More Stories Like This
Q&A: Sicangu Lakota Filmmaker Yvonne Russo on Her New Hulu Series, 'Vow of Silence: The Assassination of Annie Mae'Third Annual Tribal Museums Day Centers Diverse Histories, Cultures & Lifeways
Tommy Orange's "Wandering Stars" Makes TIME's 100 Must-Read Books of 2024 List
Barbie Honors Maria Tallchief, America’s First Prima Ballerina, with Inspiring Women Doll for Native American Heritage Month
10 Native American Artists and Musicians You Should Know
Support Independent Indigenous Journalism That Holds Power to Account
With the election now decided, Native News Online is recommitting to our core mission: rigorous oversight of federal Indian policy and its impact on tribal communities.
The previous Trump administration’s record on Indian Country — from the reduction of sacred sites to aggressive energy development on tribal lands — demands heightened vigilance as we enter this new term. Our Indigenous-centered newsroom will provide unflinching coverage of policies affecting tribal sovereignty, sacred site protection, MMIR issues, water rights, Indian health, and economic sovereignty.
This critical watchdog journalism requires resources. Your support, in any amount, helps maintain our independent, Native-serving news coverage. Every contribution helps keep our news free for all of our relatives. Please donate today to ensure Native News Online can thrive and deliver impactful, independent journalism.
