- 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
Vail, Colorado, Pulls Native American Artist and Residency, Artist ShockedHere's What's Going in Indian Country, May 10th — May 16th
Shinnecock Language Media Exhibit Opens in East Hampton Next Month
Q&A: Cree Métis and Two-Spirit Artist and Fashion Designer Jason Baerg
Here's What's Going in Indian Country, May 3rd — May 9th
Native Perspective. Native Voices. Native News.
We launched Native News Online because the mainstream media often overlooks news that is important is Native people. We believe that everyone in Indian Country deserves equal access to news and commentary pertaining to them, their relatives and their communities. That's why the story you’ve just finished was free — and we want to keep it that way, for all readers. We hope you'll consider making a donation to support our efforts so that we can continue publishing more stories that make a difference to Native people, whether they live on or off the reservation. Your donation will help us keep producing quality journalism and elevating Indigenous voices. Any contribution of any amount — big or small — gives us a better, stronger future and allows us to remain a force for change. Donate to Native News Online today and support independent Indigenous-centered journalism. Thank you.