About the Grant
The Supporting Indigenous Arts Mastery (SIAM) program provides grants to foster partnerships between public and private colleges and Tribal communities, focusing on the visual arts of the Tribal communities. Our goal is to create environments where Tribal artists can define and thrive in their cultural arts practices while being supported by higher education institutions.
Grant Applications Open for 2025
“SIAM” is a term of respect, particularly for an elder with great cultural knowledge of the Coast Salish languages. SIAM is pronounced SEE-am.
Apply to SIAM
Learn how to apply to the SIAM Grant and download a printable list of instructions. Get details on eligibility, funding, how to submit a proposal, required materials, grant conditions, award notification and more.
Our Goals
Support visual arts programs that engage with local Tribe(s) to promote culturally important art to the Tribe(s).
For “culturally important arts” to be defined by the local Tribe(s). They could include traditional arts, or other forms of visual arts (e.g. paintings, carvings, photography, etc.)
To establish a relationship in which the Tribe(s) can guide your program about the types of artistic expressions they value. We also hope to see sustainable relationships with the Tribes even after the grant cycle ends.
Types of Activities Sponsored by SIAM
The Tribes should determine the forms of art they include — not the college.
- Tribal artist residencies from artists suggested by the Tribe(s).
- Engagement with master artists from Tribes or nations.
- Teaching/learning opportunities between colleges and Tribes.
- On-campus events featuring lectures, workshops, and exhibitions of Tribally-based artists in the program.
SIAM Grant Service Area
Public and private colleges and universities, including two-year and four-year schools, are eligible.
Alaska, Arizona, British Columbia, California (Southern), Idaho, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin.
The following academic institutions have partnered with House of Welcome through the SIAM Grant:
Questions?
Connect With Us
Mary Kummer | Makah Tribe | mary.kummer@evergreen.edu
Program Specialist, s’gʷ gʷiɁ altxʷ House of Welcome
Laura VerMeulen | Tlingit, Haida Tribes of Alaska | vermeull@evergreen.edu
Director, s’gʷ gʷiɁ altxʷ House of Welcome