Many programs currently exist that Cree artists can apply for, namely from CALQ, SODEC, Canada Council for the Arts, and the CNG. However, most artists are not aware of these programs. CNACA acts as a one-stop-shop for artists seeking funding. The CNACA Program Officer is able to determine which grants an artist may be eligible for, offers help in completing application documents.

Deadline for next funding applications due: July 15, 2019. For any additional information, please contact Special Projects & Events Coordinator.

We provide sponsorship to members of CNACA and assist in establishing eligibility for various grant programs. Applicants must be beneficiary members of the Cree Nation of Eeyou Istchee and shall produce to this end a picture of their Beneficiary Identification Card with their sponsorship requests.

CNACA has successfully conducted a variety of popular training sessions in the past years, including: moose-hide training, sewing and tamarack decoy building. To keep traditional skills alive, it is important that CNACA continues to offer training of traditional skills in the various communities at least once a year. It’s important to recognize that the quality and accessibility of arts education in the schools of Eeyou Istchee varies. As well, our younger generation often lacks opportunities to connect with their Cree identity and culture. Addressing these challenges will be an important priority for CNACA.

Previous studies we have undertaken highlight the need for our artists to reach beyond their isolation. This means meeting each other more frequently to network, compare artistic techniques and to showcase and sell their work. Indeed, opportunities to collectively promote and market their work are lacking. CNACA wants to fill in that gap by organizing annual gatherings for artists to develop positions on a range of common interests and concerns. These gatherings would take place through a traveling cultural festival and trade show, at which Cree artists would be promoted and recognized in an awards ceremony.

Also, CNACA will organize an annual trip to a professional national/international tradeshow, where we will present and market one to three examples of authentic Cree art each year. Past trade shows have included: Salon des métiers d’arts (Montreal), Canadian Aboriginal Festival (Toronto), Home and Cottage Show (Montreal).