Fostering Access and Connection

Category: Native Arts
Location: Sullivan, Maine

Begun in 2005 in partnership with the Ford Foundation, the Native Arts program seeks to increase the visibility and support of Native American artists in New England and nationally through grantmaking and network development. By design, this program serves as an entry point for Native artists, connecting them to other funding and marketing opportunities at NEFA and elsewhere.

Hawk Henries (Nipmuc) is a Maine-based musician and flute maker who was among the first round of artists to receive support through NEFA’s Native Arts New England program.

Hawk began to use MatchBook.org to connect with potential audiences for his work. In November 2008, he became the first Native artist to present at NEFA’s annual Idea Swap, which encourages collaboration on cross-disciplinary touring projects that can be supported through NEFA’s Expeditions program.

Photo by Lisa Henries