Aboriginal art and artists promoted

Page 2

An initiative has begun to help struggling Aboriginal artists become recognized.

The Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre, is currently developing a program, First Nations Art Marketing, that will enable First Nations artists to promote and sell their work using digital technology through the internet. An exhibition web site will be set up to help customers purchase art right from their computers.

The project originated after a perception that Aboriginal artists didn't have the financial backing to show their work.

"I've dealt with a lot of Aboriginal artists, all struggling in trying to sell their pieces. We found they weren't getting a fair price and had to physically carry their pieces to places to sell. It wasn't a good situation for them," said Cathy Wheaton, art co-ordinator for the centre.

She said there is currently a web site that exhibits art but the new exhibition web site will assist artists in selling their work.

Many Native artists are not recognized and the centre hopes that through the internet, artists will begin to establish themselves and add to the world of art in a unique way.

The centre will host a First Nations artists conference at the Wanuskewin Heritage Park on Aug. 19 and 20, specifically to gather Native artists of Saskatchewan. It will discuss grants, copyright and a chance to test the new marketing effort.

"We encourage artists to bring their work and demonstrate on-line," said Wheaton.

There are just 100 tickets available for the conference. Registration is $40. For more information, phone at (306)244-1146.

@@