The Creative Native Call for Art by the Center for Native American Youth (CNAY) celebrates a cornerstone of many Indigenous cultures by providing space and support for young Native artists, ages 5-24, to showcase their talents. Recognizing the diversity in artistic expression among tribes, all mediums are welcomed. This includes, but is not limited to: painting, drawing, pottery, sculpture, photography and traditional works (beadwork, jewelry, regalia, silversmithing and carving).
The 9th annual Creative Native Call for Art by the Center for Native American Youth is accepting submissions now through December 20, 2026.
This year, submissions should respond to the following prompt:
What does an Indigenous Future look like to you? What does your Indigenous future include? Does it look like crisp and clean flowing rivers full of fish? Does it look like bountiful fields of traditional foods? Does it look like traditional Indigenous languages being spoken by all? All interpretations welcome!
Each artist may submit one (1) artwork/ piece for the contest with a description of up to 100 words. Artists can submit up to three (3) images for each entry to showcase different angles of the piece. For more information about Creative Native, please review our complete list of Rules & Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), or contact cnayinfo@aspeninstitute.org.
Artists must electronically submit a high-resolution photo of their art – by December 20, 2026 at 11:59pm ET – using the 2026 Creative Native Call for Art Entry Form. Late submissions will not be judged.
Submission Eligibility
- Self-identify as Native American or Indigenous
- Between the ages of 5 and 24 years old (on the application deadline)
- Currently reside in the United States
Winner Categories
- 5 to 9 years old
- 10 to 14 years old
- 15 to 19 years old
- 20 to 24 years old
*To be eligible for the grand prize, artists must be between the ages of 16 and 24.