VNAA contracts with IHS Mid-Atlantic Tribal Health Clinic (MATHC) on Indigenous Arts Curation!

The Virginia Native Arts Alliance (VNAA) is proud to partner with the IHS Mid-Atlantic Tribal Health Center (MATHC) in Charles City, Virginia to curate a permanent collection of artwork created by citizens of Virginia's Tribal Nations.

This collection will celebrate the history, cultures, and living traditions of the Virginia Tribes while creating a welcoming, healing environment for patients, staff, and visitors. The artwork will become a lasting part of the new Mid-Atlantic Tribal Health Center, honoring the enduring presence and creativity of Virginia's Indigenous communities.

Background Information

Get Involved

VNAA invites you to participate in this historic project by:

  • (1) Serving on the Artist Selection Committee to help review submissions and select artwork for the collection. If interested, please reach out to Rebecca Hill, Executive Director, at info@vanativearts.org.

    OR

  • (2) Submitting your artwork if you are a citizen of a Virginia tribe, or federally recognized tribe in the United States by 11:59pm EDT on Monday, August 10, 2026 (see below for details).

  • (3) Provide your input with this brief survey if you are a citizen of a Virginia Tribe.

Together, we can create a permanent collection that reflects the diversity, resilience, and artistic excellence of Virginia's Tribal communities for generations to come.

Open Call for Artists: Proposal Parameters


Artist Eligibility
The MATHC and VNAA will prioritize artwork submitted by artists who fall into the priority categories below:

  • Enrolled tribal citizens from a federally or state recognized Tribe in Virginia.

  • Enrolled tribal citizens from a federally recognized tribe elsewhere in the United States.

Selection Criteria

  1. Artist is a Member of one of the Artist Eligibility Groups (see above)

  2. Size limitations

    a. Two-dimensional works - All will be considered based upon limitations of the wall spaces

    b. Three-dimensional works – will be installed in enclosed cases with glass doors.

  3. Content of work

    All content will be considered, and selections will be made with the understanding that the pieces will be located in a healing and community environment.

  4. Materials used – All types of artwork and creative items will be considered, including but not limited to: framed artwork, sculpture, clothing, items of adornment, drums, etc.

    a. Culturally Sensitive Materials - will not accept any work deemed culturally sensitive, such as ceremonial objects. Any and all materials from protected species must comply with all current laws and regulations of State and Federal agencies.

    b. Restrictions - Materials and finishes must be safe for the healthcare environment, allowing for ease of maintenance and conservation.

  5. Gallery ready

    a. All two-dimensional works must be gallery ready (matted and framed). Stretched canvas must have finished sides or canvas frame. Hanging hardware and other installation materials will be provided by installers

Deadline:
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 EDT on Monday, August 10, 2026.

Questions?
All questions can be submitted to Rebecca Hill, Executive Director at info@vanativearts.org.

Apply Here