Tanya Dimitrov, Bulgarian Folk Dancer, 2024 | Phoenix, AZ Tanya will work with apprentice, Megan Vesellinova. Tanya began her journey in Bulgarian folk dance at the age of six in her village of Peturch, Bulgaria. Under the guidance of her father, Dimitar Naydenov, an accomplished dancer and keeper of the village’s dance heritage, Tanya learned … Read more
Jessica Lomatewama, Hopi Basket Weaver. 2024 Jessica practices the Third Mesa style of Hopi basketry, known as Yungpyapu, and will continue teaching her adult daughter, Stephanie Marie Lomatewama-Kayquoptewa. Jessica’s journey in basketry began in her early twenties, although she had long been drawn to the art. She befriended a lady in her village, Idella Kursgowva, … Read more
Richard Montague, Kwat’saan Potter & Culture Bearer, 2024 | Yuma, AZ Richard is a master potter from the Kwat’saan Tribe, also known as the Yuma People. He will work with his niece, Cornelia Ann Montague. Richard’s artistic practice is deeply rooted in the traditions of his people. “I have been told and I sincerely believe … Read more
Nālani Kaho’onei, Kumu Hula (Master Teacher), 2024 | Gilbert, AZ As a Kumu Hula, Nālani is considered a custodian of Hawaiian traditions, passing down knowledge of dance, music, language, and craftsmanship She will work with her son, Kainoa Kaho’onei to pass on the traditions. Nālani was born and raised in Waimānalo, a town on the … Read more
Marilyn Hume, White Mountain Apache basket maker, 2024 | Cibecue, AZ Marilyn specializes in weaving burden baskets, tobacco baskets, and Apache pitch-covered water vases (known as “tus”). She will mentor her adult grandson, Michael Benito. Marilyn is renowned for her dedication to preserving traditional basket weaving and other cultural practices. Born on March 11, 1956, … Read more
J. Edson “House” Magaña, Hip-hop Artist, 2024 | Phoenix, AZ J. Edson is a hip-hop dancer, performer, and educator working to empower young people in Phoenix toward greater visibility. He will work with apprentice Ruby Morales. Edson “House” Magaña is a distinguished figure in the world of hip-hop, embodying the culture’s transformative power and enduring … Read more
Misael Barraza Diaz, Flamenco Guitarist, 2024 | Tucson, AZ Misael has been performing Flamenco guitar since he was 17, studying with renowned artists in Spain and in Arizona. He is committed to making the form more accessible to communities were resources are scarce. He will mentor Tofan Rofati. Misael’s journey into Flamenco reflects his lifelong … Read more
Mylyle Ethelbah, White Mountain Apache Buckskin Dress Maker, 2024 | Whiteriver, AZ Mylyle Ethelbah makes traditional White Mountain Apache buckskin dresses used in the Sunrise Ceremony, a coming-of-age initiation for girls. She will mentor Jayda Alchesay. Mylyle (she/her) is a White Mountain Apache artist and community educator whose work honors the traditions of her people. … Read more
Royce Murray, Hammond Organ Player, 2024 | Phoenix, AZ Royce is a master of the Hammond organ, used in many genres of Black music: Gospel, the blues, R&B, and jazz. His apprentice is Dominique Holley. Royce began taking music lessons at the age of 7 and continued until he was 17. He studied under various … Read more
Sewa Yuli, Ancestral Foodways Artist, 2024 | Vail, AZ Sewa is an ancestral foods cook and advocate who uses culinary medicine to promote healing, connection to tradition and health. Her apprentice is Paloma Martinez. Sewa (they/them) is a dedicated community member who brings a wealth of knowledge and cultural pride to the region. As a … Read more