Inspired Natives Awards 2020 - A Call for Nominations

Eighth Generation will celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day 2020 by giving three Inspired Natives Awards to hardworking Indigenous arts entrepreneurs who embody the Eighth Generation spirit!

For the first time in history, we are asking the public to nominate their favorite Indigenous artist for this award.

Serene Lawrence (Anishinaabe, Hopi), Chief Operating Officer of Eighth Generation, says the company is looking for the public’s help to choose awardees. “It might be hard to attend Indigenous Peoples' Day events this year,” Serene says. “So, in a time when many artists are really struggling, what better way to celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day than to nominate your favorite artists for a financial award and some recognition?”

What is the Inspired Natives Award?

The Inspired Natives Award is $2500 in unrestricted funds to an artist or arts entrepreneur who personifies the Eighth Generation spirit. The award, which is funded by 5% of all profits from blanket sales, represents one component of our broad-based effort to be stewards of the communities in which we work.

This annual award is distributed in cooperation with our friends at The Evergreen State College Longhouse and The Evergreen State College Foundation.

Any Indigenous artist doing any kind of art form is eligible.

How do I nominate an artist?

We like to keep it simple. Email us the following information to [email protected]:

• A one paragraph explanation of why you think the artist embodies the Eighth Generation spirit and why they should be considered for an Inspired Natives Award.
• At least one photo that represents the artist’s work.
• A link to the artist's social media page or website.
• Yes, you can nominate yourself!
• Deadline: November 10

In addition to using the content to select awardees, we will also use our online platforms to give select nominees some shine. While not everyone can receive the award, contenders could use a little promotional support from their friends at Eighth Generation!

Why do we offer the Eighth Generation Inspired Natives Award?

Eighth Generation is owned by the Snoqualmie Tribe. As a tribally owned business, we are committed to stewardship of the resources that we rely on. In our case, this resource is Native art and artists.

Since launching wool blankets in 2015, Eighth Generation has produced more than 50 blankets – each one designed by a Native artist who is paid for their work. Some of these artists are participants in our nationally recognized Inspired Natives Project, through which we help them build their business capacity.  

Yet, we go even further by committing 5% of all profits from blanket sales to our Inspired Natives Award. It is our effort to recognize Indigenous people who embody Eighth Generation values of excellence and commitment to community.