Manoomin Arts Initiative

Artwork by Emily Klarer

The video was created by Filmmaker Leah Rathe of Leah XR Creative
as part of the DoPT’s 2023- 2025 Activate Rural Learning Lab.

Support MAI’s Work Here

Supporting Artists
Developing local framework for arts Economy
Creating Welcoming Environments

The Manoomin Arts Initiative
is an indigenous-led, artist-led

collective that energizes
arts-centered cultural vibrancy
through ongoing initiatives
for adults, families, and youth.
We work with collaborators
within Mahnomen County,
White Earth Reservation,
and the surrounding region.

As we come approach the end of another year, we would like to express our thanks to all of our collaborators and community members that make Manoomin Arts Initiative what it has become today. If you find yourself looking to support a cause in your e

We are so thankful to our wonderful collaborators and granters. Organizations like the Mardag Foundation help to make our world spin round. Thank you Mardag for supporting a more vibrant arts future for our community.

Through the support of found

Artist Spotlight: Jakob Littlewolf

Jakob is a painter based in Naytahwaush working primarily in acrylic poured painting. Jakob began his art journey through trials of several mediums and styles, landing eventually with poured acrylic.

"When I

Artist Spotlight: Eliza Klarer

Eliza works in a broad spectrum of mediums: woodland pottery, painting, blanket making, multi media, ceramics, painting, textiles and bookmaking.

Eliza has been involved in many capacities with Manoomin Arts Initiati

Miigwech to everyone who joined for the reading with Marcie Rendon last week, it was such a special night to see so many wonderful faces. Marcie was here to give insight into the art of writing work and work with young writers from Waubun and Mahnom

Wednesday, November 12th we are excited to be partnering with Mahnomen Waubun Public Schools & Mahnomen American Indian Education. Help us welcome Marcie Rendon back in Mahnomen for an event featuring a feast, Drum, and a reading from her Cash B

We’re so excited to bring our community showcase with the Shared Horizons in Wahpeton, North Dakota! The Red Door Art Gallery has been such a great partner to showcase our artists with care and grace.

If you’re able to join us on Thurs

Last week was busy in Mahnomen, our Board Chair Kent Estey curated work from local artists for an exhibit as a partnership between Manoomin Arts Initiative (MAI) and the Red Door Gallery in Wahpeton, North Dakota. The exhibition, titled “Share

Have you been in see the new Emerging Artist show at Gizhiigin? White Earth tribal member Shannon Eck is being showcased through October 27th. Join us Monday through Thursday 10am - 4pm or by appointment.

Email Rebecca@manoominarts.org to schedule

Are you an artist with ties to the White Earth Reservation Area? We’re excited to be partnering with the Red Door Art Gallery in Wahpeton, ND for a takeover show for the month of November featuring artists from the area Native and non-native a

"As a photographer I am sharing many stories through these images. In a photograph, I can highlight the important issues through my work- it can be hard and it can be positive and it can honor our people."

Our newest Emerging Artist show N

Thanks to all who supported and helped out with our MdW Itasca gathering. Thank you to all of the attendees of our Saturday Mini Summit!

We were honored and energized to be together in this beautiful place of Omashkoozo-zaaga'igan, which means Elk

This Sunday, September 21st!

We will be gathering with Melissa Frank from the Red Door Gallery in Wahpeton, North Dakota. We’re excited for artists with ties to the reservation (Native and Non-Native) to show work together at the Red Door Gal

September 21st we will be gathering for an informational session with Melissa Frank from the Red Door Gallery in Wahpeton, North Dakota. We’re excited for to have the opportunity to for artists with ties to the reservation (Native and Non-Nati

Such a wonderful way to wrap MdW day one at Itasca