#United States #New York #Walker Youngbird #Native Artists #Neon Art

Sarah Rowe: The Inaugural Native Neon Artist

The Walker Youngbird Foundation, a non-profit organization led by Native individuals, is making headlines with their new program, Native Neon. This initiative aims to provide Indigenous artists with access to neon fabrication through an artist residency valued at $50,000. The first recipient of this unique opportunity is Sarah Rowe, a prominent artist from the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska.

Rowe, who is known for her innovative artwork that often incorporates themes from her Indigenous heritage, was chosen through a rigorous screening process that included a panel of judges with extensive experience in the art world. Among the esteemed advisors was Marie Watt, a renowned artist from the Seneca Nation, who highlighted Rowe's potential to successfully transition her artistic vision into the realm of neon artistry.

The Native Neon residency is structured to offer a teaching experience, where artists will benefit from hands-on training and comprehensive fabrication support. During her time at the Lite Brite Neon Studio in Kingston, New York, Rowe will not only receive a stipend of $10,000, but she will also have all fabrication expenses covered, along with materials, studio time, and technical training. This holistic support allows her to explore the vibrant world of neon—a medium she has yet to work with in her artistic endeavors.

Rowe's artistic practice is characterized by a captivating and playful essence, often embracing the trickster spirit found in Lakota tradition. She creatively uses humor and vibrant colors to engage her audience, challenge perceptions, and foster reconciliation between cultures. Her unique approach enhances her connection with the topic of light, inviting her to explore how neon can animate and elevate her artwork.

Reflecting on her childhood, Rowe recalls the allure of neon lights during powwows, which sparked her fascination for working with light as a medium. The melding of her artistic flair with the essence of neon suggests compelling new possibilities for her upcoming installations.

Notably, Rowe is a painter and installation artist, with previous projects such as a massive mural, “Starseeds,” spanning across grain silos in Nebraska and a solo exhibition featuring an animated ceiling at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center. Her diverse portfolio demonstrates her commitment to engaging with communities through art while transforming spaces into immersive experiences.

Marie Watt articulated her role as a primary advisor, expressing that Rowe's multidisciplinary approach sets her apart as an ideal candidate for this residency. The barriers surrounding neon fabrication can be a significant impediment for many artists, and Native Neon seeks to remedy this by providing necessary resources and spaces to promote creativity without the burdens of financial strain.

The Walker Youngbird Foundation continues to champion Indigenous artists by addressing systemic gaps in access to resources and institutional support in the arts sector. With this residency, they not only uplift Sarah Rowe but also set a precedent for future Indigenous artists to utilize innovative mediums in their practices.

As Rowe prepares for her neon venture, the art community eagerly anticipates how she will leverage this lively medium to tell her stories and amplify Indigenous narratives through vibrant, illuminated color. The public presentation of her completed neon work promises to be a significant moment, showcasing the potential of Native artists in the contemporary art scene.

For additional information on this exciting new initiative or to stay updated on Rowe's journey, visit walkeryoungbird.org and litebriteneon.com.