Arts Council of Kern’s Common Ground Initiative Celebrates Indigenous Art and Culture through KDACC
The Arts Council of Kern, a Kern County arts agency and nonprofit organization, is utilizing their $168,300 grant from the KDA Creative Corps (KDACC) for its Common Ground initiative, a program that showcases the richness of Native American culture in the Central Valleys.
Reflecting the diverse community within Kern County, the Arts Council of Kern Project highlights the values and cultures of its people. As an advocate for arts education and access for all, the Arts Council of Kern serves as a bridge between traditional indigenous practice and public art to support populations that are overlooked and underrepresented.
Common Ground hopes to create understanding and appreciation of Native American art in the Central Valley through various educational events and outreach activities in April 2024 (view our calendar of events for location and times). These events include art exhibits, artist performances, video projects and a book of Native storytelling by Alan Salazar.
Author Alan Salazar is among four talented Indigenous artists who joined Common Ground along with Gene Albitre, Lori Myers and Sean Navejas. These artists use their unique skills to enlighten Kern County residents on their heritage and how it influences their artistic expression.
Their work goes beyond mere craft; it is a way for them to preserve their culture and share it with others.
- Salazar is a Chumash and Tataviam elder, who shares the stories, lessons and values of his culture throughout Southern California.
- Albitre is a retired spiritual leader whose rawhide craftsmanship educates people on the role animals play in Native American history.
- Myers shares her artistry through instructional beading classes in Kern County, inspiring artists to find the beauty and cultural significance behind Native American beadwork.
- Navejas is a contemporary filmmaker and full-time videographer for the ACK. He artfully captures local talent and inspires the community around him.
Common Ground has already made significant strides in engaging the community by participating in various events.
Their first event was the Owtsan House opening, a Native American educational exhibit at the Kern County Museum. Visitors had the opportunity to be immersed in the world of Native Americans as they learned about the history and art from local artists. Albitri shared his knowledge of plants and animals and Salazar captivated the audience with Chumash stories.
Common Ground also participated in the annual Petroglyph Festival, a Native American festival that features traditional music, dances, and exhibits at the Maturango Museum. Guests enjoyed enriching activities and a class taught by Myers where participants learned how to bead.
The teachings and presentations from these artists educate the guests and inspire creativity! Join Common Ground at their next event on April 28 from 1-4 p.m. at Okihi for an Indigenous art exhibition.
To find out more details and learn more about the program, visit https://kernarts.org/common-ground/.
About the Artist/Organization: Arts Council of Kern
The Arts Council of Kern is a nonprofit organization and arts agency, serving Kern County by providing arts education, access and advocacy to its residents and visitors. In partnership with the California Arts Council, the County of Kern and local agencies, it aims to financially support artists and organizations working to bring art to the community.
