Commission Opportunity for Indigenous Artists

    Private commission to be donated to Northwestern University

    Red Earth is collecting proposals for a private commission request on behalf of an individual donor. The selected artist will create an original painting that will be donated and permanently displayed at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois


    Please note: this commission will move forward only after Northwestern University confirms it will accept the proposed gift based on the artist’s samples and submitted proposal. Red Earth is coordinating the proposal process on behalf of the donor, but this call does not guarantee selection or final acceptance by the University.

    This commission is being created in honor of Kelly Amonte Hiller, one of the most accomplished figures in the sport of women’s lacrosse.

    Copyright: S. J. Carrera, Inc. 2012

    Learn more about Kelly Amonte Hiller

    This is not a Red Earth funded project. Red Earth’s role is to help connect the donor with an Indigenous artist and support a smooth introduction. Payment will be made directly to the selected artist by the donor under the agreed commission terms.

    • Project summary

      • Destination: Northwestern University (Evanston, Illinois)

      • Artwork type: Original work (artist’s medium)
      • Primary focal point: The stickball (lacrosse) players
      • Preferred approach: An 1800s depiction with thoughtful detail on players, clothing, and equipment
      • Setting: A strong sense of place connected to the Lake Michigan region is preferred, while keeping the players as the dominant focal point
      • Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Native artists who are enrolled citizens of a federally or state recognized tribe. Applicants will be asked to provide documentation (such as a CDIB and or tribal enrollment documentation) as part of the review process.



    • Size

      Target size is 28 x 26 inches. Artists may propose an adjusted size if it strengthens the composition.

      Payment and logistics

      • The selected artist will set the final price
      • Payment is expected in three installments: deposit to begin, midpoint payment, and final payment upon completion
      • Shipping and packing costs will be covered separately by the donor
      • The artist will provide an estimated timeline from deposit to completion

    • Recognition

      The finished artwork will be credited to the artist and displayed at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois as a donated work.

    • Submission deadline

      Proposals will be accepted through August 31, 2026. After the deadline, Red Earth will contact shortlisted artists with next steps.

    Use the form below to submit your proposal, timeline, pricing, and portfolio materials. Optional concept sketches are welcome.