Deadline for artist to apply is May 31, 2025
In proud partnership with the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, the California State Railroad Museum & Foundation are calling out for Native American artists interested in collaborating by providing artwork for the upcoming Railroads in Native America Forum that will be held at the California State Railroad Museum in 2026. The Forum is an ongoing exploration of the impact of railroads in Indian Country. Originally initiated by the Union Pacific Railroad Museum in 2019, the Forum provides a platform to discuss the interrelationships between railroads and Native communities. The 2026 Forum held in Sacramento marks the third iteration of the event and continues to center Native voices and perspectives on the historical and contemporary significance of railroads.
“All railroads run through Native American lands. Although the stories of the impacts of railroading in Native California are less obvious than in other places, they are certainly here. This gathering gives participants the opportunity to explore, uncover, and give voice to these important stories, in all of their complexities. And because art is an important aspect of storytelling, we are excited to see how Native American artists represent Railroads in Native America through artistry,” said Dr. Ty Smith, Director, California State Railroad Museum.
In keeping with the mission of the project, the Museum & Foundation seeks an artist affiliated with a Native American Tribe (preferably an artist connected to tribes in present-day California) to create original artwork that will serve as the primary visual identity for the 2026 Railroads in Native America Forum. The selected artist will receive $1,000 as compensation for their artwork. The deadline to apply and submit artwork is May 31, 2025. Information about eligibility and submission requirements for interested Native American artists is available here.
More information about the Railroads in Native America Forum is available here. And, for more information about the California State Railroad Museum and Foundation, please visit www.californiarailroad.museum.
