Folk + Traditional Arts
Arts Midwest supports, informs, and celebrates the folk and traditional arts field in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin, the Native Nations that share this geography, and beyond.
Folk and Traditional Arts Resources
We’ve curated a list of valuable tools and information to help support Midwestern folk and traditional arts practitioners.
Recent Folk + Traditional Arts Stories
Podcast: Music & Mental Health In Northern Minnesota
On this episode, we talk with Sam Miltich, a professional jazz guitarist from rural Minnesota who lives with schizophrenia. Sam shares how he’s found solace in nature and how he’s been able to balance his music career and mental health.
Podcast: Art & The Land
On this episode, hear from two Ojibwe artists whose creative practices are deeply connected to the land. Birchbark and quill artist Pat Kruse and water walker Sharon Day share their perspectives on the importance of having a reciprocal relationship with the natural environment and caring for community.
Podcast: Digging Into The Indian Arts And Crafts Act
On this episode, embark on a thought-provoking exploration as Native artist advocates Christina Woods and Graci Horne dig into the intricacies of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990. This landmark truth-in-advertising law prohibits misrepresentation in the marketing of Indian arts and crafts, but many say that the legislation doesn’t go far enough to protect Native artists.
