Walker Youngbird Foundation and Lite Brite Neon Studio Unveil New Residency for Indigenous Artists

Empowering Indigenous Artists through Neon Art

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Walker Youngbird Foundation has joined forces with Lite Brite Neon Studio to launch the Native Neon residency, a $50,000 program designed to enhance Indigenous artists' access to the intricate medium of neon fabrication. Announced on March 5, 2026, the residency aims to uplift Indigenous creative voices, providing them with resources and expertise in a medium that has historically been out of reach.

A New Dawn for Neon Art

Neon art is renowned for its vibrant, eye-catching aesthetics and is often seen gracing the façades of buildings and public artworks. However, creating neon works demands specialized knowledge and expensive equipment that many emerging artists lack. Recognizing this gap, Native Neon promises to bridge the divide by offering a supportive and educational environment. The residency will accept one Indigenous artist annually—an artist from any discipline who has yet to explore neon work.

The selected artist will receive a $10,000 stipend and will participate in a 7–10 day immersive residency at Lite Brite Neon Studio, situated in Kingston, New York. There, the artist will collaborate closely with seasoned craftspeople, gaining hands-on experience in various aspects of neon fabrication including glass bending, gas and color composition, electrical systems, and installation methods.