Skye Little Cloud, Serpentine Bloom (left) Introspective Bloom (right), 2025, acrylic on canvas.
Larysa Medina, Till Death, 2022, Digital Illustration.
Each year, the DAM partners with a local Indigenous-led organization to deepen community connections and strengthen opportunities for young artists. Past partners have included the Colorado Native Cultural Enrichment Program, the Denver Indian Center, Inc., Spirit of the Sun, and Denver Healing Generations. This year, the DAM is proud to partner with Honoring Our Mother Earth (H.O.M.E.), whose mission is to create a nurturing space where Native American and BIPOC youth, elders, and families can heal together. Rooted in land-based education, traditions, the arts, and outdoor experiences, H.OM.E. aims to preserve cultural knowledge and plant seeds for a lifelong relationship with Mother Earth.
Inspired by H.O.M.E.'s mission, this year's exhibition invites artists to explore themes of intergenerational healing, environmental stewardship, connections to the land, and nature-based cultural traditions. Works may be grounded in one or more of these themes and are open to be interpreted further.
For many artists, Indomitably Indigenous is more than an exhibition. It is a launching point for creative growth and community. Returning artist and 2026 exhibition consultant Skye Little Cloud describes the exhibition as a place that "empowered me as an emerging artist" and provided opportunities to build an audience, connect with other Indigenous creatives, and develop her career. After participating in the exhibition for three years, Little Cloud has gone on to exhibit in other institutions and communal spaces and now gives back by helping curate the show.
Artist and designer Larysa Medina shares a similar experience. As a young artist, having her work featured in Indomitably Indigenous was both a major accomplishment and a meaningful way to celebrate her Indigenous heritage. Medina says the exhibition "gave me a creative spark to keep creating based on my cultural experiences and values." Since participating, she has returned to the DAM as a demonstrating artist, expanded her connections within the arts community, and grown her creative practice as both a freelance designer and tattoo apprentice.
Little Cloud’s and Medina’s experiences highlight the lasting impact of Indomitably Indigenous which creates space for young Indigenous artists to share their stories, build confidence, and discover new opportunities. Emerging Indigenous artists are encouraged to submit their work every year and become part of this growing community.
Last year, Indomitably Indigenous showcased 66 works by 39 artists from eight U.S. states. The program continues to expand its reach among young people every year! Don't miss the next showcase, on view from October 23, 2026, to January 7, 2027.
