As we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the founding of Idyllwild Arts, the Native American Arts Center is holding a series of Thursday evening engagements from January to April where we will meet in person to learn more about the history of Native American Arts at Idyllwild Arts and explore goals for the future! We are thrilled to host these in-person engagements in the newly renovated Birchard Building, which is now the official home of the Native American Arts Center. Be sure to mark your calendars and join us for evenings full of inspiring stories, light appetizers and beverages. The Michael Kabotie Lecture series is named after Native Arts summer faculty program collaborator, Michael Kabotie, 1942-2009, (Hopi). Michael’s inquisitive and trickster spirit lives on in these compelling conversations that Michael advocated for greatly during his time at Idyllwild Arts.

Mikailah Thompson (she/her) is a dynamic Afro-Indigenous (nimîipuu) entrepreneur, artist, and advocate for Indigenous representation in the creative industry. As the owner and founder of Beadwork by Mikailah and Indigenous Creatives LLC, Mikailah merges her deep connection to her culture with her passion for creating contemporary pieces based on traditional influences. Raised on and off the reservation in Lapwai, Idaho, she’s always been drawn to the power of storytelling through art. With a background in marketing, leadership, and communication, Mikailah has built a brand that not only celebrates her cultural identity but also leverages modern marketing strategies to reach broader audiences. Through her entrepreneurial efforts, she has established herself as a leader in the growing Indigenous art space, fostering community and cultural appreciation through her platforms. Mikailah’s dedication to promoting Indigenous art and culture extends beyond her own work. She actively collaborates with other creatives to share their work, helping to break barriers and elevate Indigenous culture in mainstream spaces. This conversation will provide an opportunity to learn more about Afro-Indigeneity, the power of collaboration and cultural pride in honor of Black History Month.

This conversation will be moderated by students from the BSU and Indigenous Peoples Club.

Related Events

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  Ataloa, A Beautiful Song Sung to Promote Native Arts and Culture with America Meredith | Spring Michael Kabotie Lecture Series 

  March 26 @ 7:00 pm – 7:30 pm PDT
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  Land, Language, Family – Cahuilla Continuance, Cultural and Land Stewardship | Spring Michael Kabotie Lecture Series 

  April 16 @ 7:00 pm – 7:30 pm PDT