The University of Saskatchewan Art Galleries and Collection (USAGaC) has now opened the application call for the third annual ohpinamake Prize for Indigenous Artists. “ohpinamake” is a nêhiyawêwin term meaning “to lift others,” which was gifted to USAGaC by three Indigenous community leaders: elders Maria Campbell and Louise Bernice Halfe-Sky Dancer, and artist and alumna Ruth Cuthand. This award recognizes an Indigenous artist who works within the spirit of the term, and whose territories intersect with the current colonial borders of Canada.
This opportunity is made possible through the generous support of donors Jim and Marian Knock. Originally from Saskatchewan, the Knocks provided an initial 50,000 CAD for ohpinamake to be administered by USAGaC in the College of Arts and Science. An award of 10,000 CAD . A jury will select the artist, who will receive 10,000 CAD annually for the next three years. The recipient will be announced in Spring 2025.
The artist must engage in a practice that “lifts others,” either through social practice, artwork that elevates Indigenous perspectives, or behavior that supports others.
Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship with documentation is required. Visit deybwewin / taapwaywin / tapwewin to complete the verification process.
The application form has two key questions to help jurors understand how the applicant’s work aligns with the award. It is available in English, French, and Inuktitut, with an option to upload media as a PDF. More information about the open call and the application can be found on the University's website.
