PNIAI: The artists collective that championed Indigenous art and culture in Canada
Professional Native Indian Artists Inc (PNIAI) was a collective of Indigenous artists from across Turtle Island that brought awareness and appreciation of Indigenous art in Canada.
“We wanted our art to be recognized and we wanted to be treated fairly. [So] we set out to change the art world in Canada.” The Professional Native Indian Artists Incorporated confronted longstanding prejudices and broadened awareness and appreciation of Indigenous art in Canada.
Credits:
Illustrator – Brent Hardisty
Produced by Bonfire Originals
Images – Joseph Sanchez in Victoria (Jim Carnes, 2019).
Collection of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, Photographer: Unknown.
Quote – Joseph Sanchez, “The Native Group of Seven A.K.A. Professional Native Indian Artists Inc.” in 7: Professional Native Indian Artists Inc., ed. Michelle LaVallee (Regina: MacKenzie Art Gallery, 2013), p. 188.