New Native Narratives 2027 – Open Call!

Our educational program, titled New Native Narratives, aims to challenge existing narratives within our communities through artistic creation and critical thinking, inviting artists, their mentors, and the public to engage in a dialogue about who we are as a community.

This call for applications invites emerging artists from San Diego, Tijuana, and Indigenous Nations. A total of 10 applicants will be selected to participate in an intensive, paid program where they will acquire the skills needed to develop an artistic project. Each artist will receive guidance on the conceptual aspects of their creative process, spanning from initial conception to the creation of a fully realized artwork.

The program content is divided into two approaches: Theoretical-conceptual sessions and a seminar series featuring a mix of in-person and remote lectures led by experienced instructors and mentors.

The final artworks will be featured in a group exhibition at The FRONT during the summer of 2027.

Objective:

This edition of Nuevas Narrativas Nativas (New Native Narratives) offers a space for creation, learning, and reflection dedicated to the voices, memories, and perspectives of the Indigenous peoples of Baja California, California, and the surrounding region. The initiative seeks to strengthen intercultural dialogue and acknowledge the diverse experiences, knowledge, and storytelling traditions of Indigenous peoples, as well as the ways they enrich our community within cross-border contexts.

Who can apply?

We are looking for emerging artists interested in exploring, sharing, and expanding narratives related to identity, territory, memory, community, language, cultural practices, and contemporary forms of existence from Indigenous perspectives. Affiliation with a specific Indigenous group or nation is not required to participate.

We accept projects across any visual or contemporary art discipline or medium, including—but not limited to—installation, photography, video, performance art, sculpture, painting, drawing, printmaking, sound art, digital media, interdisciplinary practices, or hybrid proposals.

Ages: 18 and up.

Stipend per student: $1,000 usd

OPEN CALL DATES:

COURSE DATES:

INSTALLATION PERIOD

ART DOCENTS BY MODULE

Module 1: Identity, Memory, and Community Narratives

Francisco Eme

Module 2: Artistic Creation and Experimentation Lab

Johnny Bear Contreras

Weshoyot Alvitre

Luvia Lazo

Francisco Eme

Module 3: Exhibition and Public Engagement / Final Presentation and Feedback

Carlos Castro Arias

Doreen Ríos

LIBRE Gutiérrez

Francisco Eme