Artist Resources
Toolkit For Artists
This toolkit is designed to help you through the process of applying for an award. Watch the series of how-to videos, learn how to write an artist statement, prepare a resume, document your work, seek grants and much more.
How to write grants
Tips for work samples
Cultural content resources
Is it appropriation? Flow chart to assess cultural appropriation
Alaska artist resources
Looking for more help? Check out the list of organizations, funders and partners geared to help artists. View the list here.
Discouraged or frustrated? The Artists U Core Principles can help you reframe your thinking and ready yourself for success in the arts. View the PDF here.
Want a local connection? Reach out to your local Alaska arts council. View the PDF here.
Video library for artists

Introduction to
Individual Artist Awards
Cultural appreciation vs. cultural appropriation
Hear from artists and experts about cultural appropriation in a conversation moderated by podcaster Alice Qannik Glenn and hosted by the Anchorage Museum in February 2022. Guests who shared their knowledge for “Considering Cultural Appropriation” were Melissa Shaginoff, Sonia Guinañsaca and E.J. R. David.
Tips from our panelists, round one
Inspiration and great tips on crafting a successful application are shared by three of the 2021 panelists — the artists and art professionals who helped select awardees. The Anchorage Museum hosted this session with e Raina J. León, Javier Torres-Campos and Jibz Cameron.
Tips from our panelists, round two
The Anchorage Museum hosted this conversation on Dec. 12, 2022, with former IAA panelists — the jurors — to offer valuable insight into how award recipients are selected. Anne Finger, Sharon VanStarkenburg, Anika Tené and Michael Hammond shared their views with the museum’s Hollis Mickey.
Hot tips for artists, by artists
Artists and Rasmuson Foundation staff provide specific guidance including that it is OK to ask for help.
Virtual gathering and intro to IAA
Artists, makers and culture bearers who are not familiar with the program can learn about it in this video. Speakers include past IAA recipients Kawahine Danner and Da-ka-xeen Mehner, and representatives from Rasmuson Foundation, Kawerak Inc., and Museums Alaska. It was recorded in January 2023.
Workshop for first-time applicants
This workshop will walk artists through the Individual Artist Award application portal and process. It is designed for those unfamiliar with the program. It was recorded in January 2023.
Quick look at key parts of application
Requirements including an artist statement, a resume and work samples are explained.