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There are few supports in place to assist Aboriginal artists through the whole process, from start to finish. Aboriginal and non-aboriginal artists and artisans compete for limited support, support that typically does not recognize the cultural process involved for an Aboriginal artist. Securing start-up loans and resources, creating business plans, obtaining licenses, paying vendor fees, purchasing materials, marketing, and limited access to gallery spaces were identified as barriers to starting up and running Aboriginal art businesses. So much so, that many Aboriginal artists end up doing their art “on the side.”
The arts promote community engagement in research but funding doesn’t always recognize this
“The arts were also a key component
of the U-ACT project” said Patty Chabbert, Lead Researcher. “Events
like Shine-A-Light , our community
mural, photography, and our Coffee Houses were all ideas that grew from our community’s interpretation of ‘research.’ These arts events and activities provided comfortable ways for the community to be involved and engaged. The youth were particularly active.”
“Sadly,” cautioned Chabbert, “these activities were the most challenging aspects of the project to fund because they didn’t fit neatly into funding categories. Funders need to recognize that creating a single community mural encompasses many parts: Elders sharing teachings with youth, mentorship, gathering and sharing knowledge with community members, increasing cultural knowledge, and contributing to positive community relations!”
Walking the Red Road
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