Introducing Kawai Danner, Native Movement Arts + Action Fellow
My name is Kawai Danner and I am the Arts In Action Fellow! I’m so excited for this amazing opportunity with Native Movement and I can’t wait to share my journey with you along the way. I am writing from Utqiagvik, Alaska, my beautiful hometown. My native roots and upbringing have inspired the work I do today and the passion I have for healing & wellness.
It took me a long time to come out of my shell when it comes to art. I’ve always loved writing and journaling which was my way of expressing emotions and spilling my thoughts onto a page. I know how it feels to create a piece of art, unsure of others’ reaction or how it’s portrayed. Eventually, with the motivation from my family and the hopes of reaching out to and uplifting people, I embraced and invested in my creative side. My art process begins with a feeling which may arise from within myself or in response to my environment; this feeling translates to an idea which then makes its way onto the canvas. I sketch by hand and finalize the art piece digitally. I feel most creative when I’m meditating or when I’m simply taking time for myself. Art is powerful and can be used to inspire meaningful change.
Through this Fellowship, I hope to gain new skills and tactics in using art as the driving force in activism. My goal is to become equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to be able to run community art builds and to create spaces for native artists, activists, and community members to connect and have meaningful discussions. I’ll be learning new skills like screen-printing, stencils, messaging, the inner workings of arts organizing and much more!
Thank you | Mahalo nui loa | Quyanaqpak
-Kawai
Artist Bio:
Kawai Danner (she/her) is from the coastal village of Utqiaġvik, Alaska and the island of Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi; she is Iñupiaq, Native Hawaiian, and German. As a Portland State University student, she is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science: Public Service and a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. Through her work, Kawai strives to be a part of real, positive change that empowers indigenous communities while paving the way to a more sustainable future. Through her art, Kawai advocates for freedom of self-expression and aims to shed light on issues affecting native people, native land, and native rights. She is deeply passionate about mental health awareness, youth & community wellness, and cultural revitalization.
Instagram: @kawai.babyy
Buy Prints: https://ko-fi.com/kawaibaby
The Arts in Action Fellowship with Native Movement is a 3-month part-time position which provides hands-on experience working with our team. The goal of this Fellowship is to give space to be creative in a collaborative environment, build capacity in our communities for Arts in Action, and support BIPOC, and queer artists/creatives who are interested in expanding their skills around Arts organizing.