Native American art is primarily viewed through a historical lens. With little space or recognition for contemporary Indigenous artwork, the contemporary affairs, challenges and ambitions of Native people and communities are neglected. Native people are not sidebars, footnotes or distant reminders of our history. They are more than five million people living in every state. They are your neighbors. And they are a creative and expressive force in contemporary life that deserves a spotlight beyond the lens of historical observation.
This very notion led Dave Kimelberg, an enrolled member of the Seneca Nation of Indians (Bear Clan), to open K Art, an art gallery featuring works solely of Native contemporary artists, and later non-profit NACo to further his mission of exposing and opening discussion around unseen Native art. By shedding a light on contemporary Native artists and their work, NACo seeks to spark meaningful conversations surrounding Native history, stereotypes, marginalization, modern Native culture and current race and diversity issues.
A certified 501(c)(3), NACo is committed to surfacing underrepresented Native contemporary artists. With the help of your funds, NACo plans to advance the work and stories of Native American artists through impactful programs and initiatives.
