PHOENIX — The Heard Museum in Phoenix has received a $2.5 million grant to enhance its engagement with Native American communities and showcase the profound role of spirituality in Indigenous art and culture.
The funding comes from the Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Religion and Cultural Institutions Initiative, launched in 2019 to help museums explore the significance of religion in the U.S. and globally.
Deepening Connections Through Spiritual Knowledge
“We are deeply grateful for this Lilly Endowment grant that will enable us to deepen our engagement with Native American communities by investing in work that explores the role that spiritual knowledge plays in their creative practices,” said David M. Roche, Heard Museum Dickey Family CEO.
Roche emphasized that sharing this knowledge not only fosters tolerance and understanding but also highlights the shared humanity that connects us all.
Building on a Legacy of Celebrating Native Stories
This is not the first time the Heard Museum has received support from the initiative. In 2020, the museum was granted $2.5 million to create the acclaimed Substance of Stars exhibit. Inspired by stories from tribes such as the Haudenosaunee, the Yup’ik, the Navajo, and the Akimel O’odham, the exhibit has been praised for its rich cultural storytelling and innovative art displays.
A National Focus on Religious and Cultural Education
Christopher L. Coble, Lilly Endowment’s vice president, noted the United States’ reputation as a hub of religious diversity.
“Many individuals and families trust museums and other cultural institutions to learn about their communities and the world,” Coble said. “We are excited to support these organizations as they help visitors understand and appreciate the diverse religious beliefs, practices, and perspectives of their neighbors and others in communities around the globe.”
What’s Next for the Heard Museum?
With this latest grant, the Heard Museum plans to further elevate its commitment to showcasing Indigenous traditions and spirituality, ensuring that visitors gain a deeper appreciation of the profound connections between art, culture, and spiritual knowledge in Native American communities.