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Art as an Engagement Tool – by Jay Bad Heart Bull

Fred

“Generations ago, one of my grandfathers was a tribal historian for my people, the Oglala Lakota of Pine Ridge, South Dakota. Amos Bad Heart Bull was a ledger artist who depicted many events that happened in the lives of my people and it is through those paintings that I have the ability to connect to my rich history. His artwork tells the story of how my people lived long ago with all the beauty and sadness that sweeping cultural change brings.

“Through it all, art has remained a catalyzing force for how my people communicate and is used to impart teachings whether through paintings, storytelling, or song. In fact, all three of those  media play an integral part in our spirituality as well, which permeates every aspect of our traditional lifestyle. And we are not unique in this regard as all people have historically used art as a way to engage and build a sense of community and identity.”

The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and Nexus Community Partners present the Community Engagement Forum.

Community engagement is a foundational component for all community development and community building work. Come to an interactive forum with funders, government officials, community residents, and community organizations to share your experience and learn together about the value of community engagement.

Thursday, October 3, 2013, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM

CEF