Seven artists named as First Peoples Fund’s Cultral Capital Fellows

First Peoples Fund has announced its Cultural Capital Fellows for this year, choosing seven artists from different Tribal Nations to receive a $10,000 award with yearlong professional support. 

By Aminah Syed, Fry Bread Creative Digital Storytelling Intern

“First Peoples Fund is honored to play a role in nurturing the growth and development of emerging and mid-career Native artists and culture bearers,” said Jaren Bonillo, Director/Program Weaver of First Peoples Fund’s programs. “Their artistic creations and sharing of traditional knowledge not only enrich individual lives, but also strengthen cultural continuity and community well-being.”

The 2026 Cultural Capital Fellowship recipients are:
● Adam Valdez (Reclamation), Diné
● Pua Case, Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian)
● Cliff Fragua, Jemez Pueblo
● Kellen Trenal, Niimíipuu (Nez Perce), Walla Walla, Yakima
● Lavender Doris, Red Lake Anishinaabe Nation of Minnesota
● Shauna Elk (Wakage by Shauna), Standing Rock Sioux Tribe
● Stephanie Craig, Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde

Each fellow will use their respective resources to empower their art, traditions and enrich Indigenous Art Ecology. They join a growing community, as the First Peoples Fund continues to honor over 550 artists from 125 tribes between the United States and Canada.

To read more about the fellowship winners and help preserve Indigenous art, visit the First Peoples Fund website.