BC Students Showcase Creativity During NASSSP Outdoor Art Event

Thursday, February 20, 2025

By Deanna Rea

The Native American Student Support and Success Program (NASSSP) recently organized a special Outdoor Art Event designed to celebrate and honor Indigenous cultural practices. This event provided participants a chance to relax and unleash their creativity, offering a peaceful break from their demanding academic schedules.

“Art plays a central role in Native culture, and this event is an integral part of the services we offer to NASSSP participants, specifically through our Cultural workshops,” said Angel Solis, one of the program’s Peer Mentors. “The objective of these workshops is to honor our heritage and preserve our cultural traditions.”

In the courtyard of the CSS building on BC’s main campus, several students could be seen immersed in their artwork, brushes in hand and deep in concentration. Two tables were covered with a variety of art supplies, from vibrantly colored acrylic paints to dozens of different canvas sizes, giving students full creative freedom with their pieces. While some students were painting starry night skies and warm-colored sunsets, others were creating intricate designs and abstract compositions. Upon completion of their painting, students had the opportunity to have their artwork displayed on the walls of the BC Cafe. “These paintings, displayed within the cafe, serve as a powerful reminder of our Indigenous roots,” said Solis, “and they affirm our presence and pride in our culture.”

NASSSP partnered with the Rising Scholars Program for the event, inviting them to set up an additional booth to promote their month-long initiative, “Make a Difference One Card at a Time.” This heartfelt initiative invites students to craft hand-made cards for children facing serious illness, offering kind words of encouragement and support. With stacks of colored construction paper and bundles of colored pencils spread across the table, students were equipped with everything they needed to begin designing their cards.

By creating a safe space for students to step away from their studies and connect with their artistic sides while honoring Indigenous cultures, NASSSP helped foster a sense of community and self-care, contributing to their overall well-being and success. “Our goal is to foster an environment that supports students not only academically but personally as well,” said Solis. “At NASSSP, we place great value on honoring and encouraging the practice of Indigenous culture.”