Racing Magpie 2026 Spring Sinew Fund recipients
Racing Magpie has selected the recipients for the Spring 2026 Sinew Fund. Three collaborative grants have been selected and received $10,000 for their project. Sinew Fund is designed to fund Oceti Sakowin visual creatives based anywhere in the United States to do project work in Lakota communities.
The past, present, and future of Lakota communities are held and led by Oceti Sakowin visual creatives, which include artists, makers, and culture bearers. This grant program is designed to support them and the community by funding collaborative, artist-led, community-based projects by Oceti Sakowin visual creatives in Lakota communities. Oceti Sakowin visual creatives can apply individually and in teams to fund innovative projects that will engage with Lakota community in exciting ways rooted in place and land. These projects will continue building relationships with human and non-human relatives, enhance the collective dialogue needed for cultural growth and strengthening, and contribute to the continuum of Oceti Sakowin creative expression and practices.
The first recipient is the “Ma Lakota Project” with Amanda Takes War Bonnett and Jennifer Young Bull Bear. The Ma Lakota Project (“I am Lakota”) is a six-month series of community workshops held on the eastern side of the Pine Ridge Reservation. This initiative focuses on “old-style” traditional crafts, including various porcupine quilling techniques, the creation of parfleche containers, and the design of bone breastplate necklaces. By teaching these ancestral skills, the project aims to strengthen community ties and deepen the understanding of Lakota identity and culture.
The 2nd recipient is “Creative Regenerations” with Donald Montileaux & Keith BraveHeart. Lead Artist Donald Montileaux returns to Rockyford School to regenerate a community artwork first established in 2012, joined by Keith Brave- Heart, who will manage the program. Together, they will mentor over 500 students and staff in 2D design, ceramics, and installation. This collaboration culminates in the creation of a site-specific public mural for the school lunchroom, composed of individual ceramic tiles handcrafted by the Rockyford community.
The third recipient is “Sovereign Selfies” with Adonica Little-Hamilton & Teslah Knight. Selfie Makoce Studios present “Sovereign Selfies”, an immersive art installation experience featuring a selfie studio with vibrant photo backgrounds highlighting Oceti Sakowin artistry, promoting cultural understanding, and empowering self-expression. This free, interactive art experience will take place at the Black Hills Powwow. In collaboration with local Lakota artists, they will incorporate traditional design patterns, concepts, and techniques into each background and 3D element.
If you are interested in learning more about Racing Magpie and the Sinew Fund, here is the link to their website: https://www.racingmagpie.org/
