Anna Johnson, an accomplished Native American artist and an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, endeavors to forge a connection between her contemporary experiences and the rich cultural heritage from which she hails. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in printmaking and drawing from North Dakota State University, Anna has established her artistic presence in Fargo and throughout North Dakota, engaging in numerous public art projects and community initiatives. Her commitment to her craft is evident through her participation in artist residency programs, educational endeavors in printmaking, and her contributions to significant murals, such as the Greetings from Fargo mural. Additionally, Anna actively serves on the City of Fargo's Arts & Culture Commission and as vice chair of the board at the Plains Art Museum, underscoring her dedication to enhancing the artistic landscape of her community. In this conversation, we explore Anna's journey, her artistic philosophy, and the importance of community engagement in the realm of art.

Takeaways:

• Anna Johnson is a Native American artist from North Dakota, dedicated to bridging cultural gaps through her art.
• Her work includes public murals and collaborations with community members, fostering local engagement and visibility.
• Johnson emphasizes the importance of representation on arts boards and actively challenges traditional narratives in art.
• Through her residency programs, she inspires young artists and advocates for access to art education in rural schools.

Links referenced in this episode:

• waterers.org
• elevenwarriorarts.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Waterers
• NDSU
• Art of the Rural