NAABA’s Artisan Membership focuses on the growth and development of Indigenous artisans within and from the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo region. As an Artisan Member, individuals gain access to a supportive network, promotional events, an online marketplace, a physical location to display their creations, and the chance to present
their work to a wider audience, all while contributing to the strength and vitality of the local Indigenous arts community.
An artisan or craftsperson is an individual or company that skillfully creates material objects, either partially or entirely by hand. Each piece must be original and personally crafted, reflecting the artisan’s unique artistic vision and cultural heritage. Mass production is not permitted, ensuring that every creation remains an authentic expression of craftsmanship.
Benefits from NAABA
- Participation at NAABA Artisan Markets, held 3 times/year
- Listed in NAABA’s Artisan Directory and assistance with creating your directory profile on NAABA’s website
- Access to the membership Health and Wellness Benefit Plan through Hub International
- Access to the online Discount Marketplace, a feature of Hub International
- Access to business development resources within the membership
- Access to education in relation to entrepreneurship funds through banking or grants, marketing, business development and expansion
- Increased exposure to clients
- Feature spread/display of work in newsletter
- Email correspondence from NAABA regarding upcoming business training, programming, special events, and business growth opportunities.
- Showcase of your business on social media through a campaign promoting the program
Benefits to Artisan
By collaborating with Arts Council Wood Buffalo, Artisan Members will have receive an annual ACWB Individual membership.
- FREE access to online Marketplace and online guide to sell your arts and/or craft
- Access to programing and training
- Participation in Artisan Markets
- Monthly eNewsletter with updates on opportunities for artists in the community
- EXCLUSIVE discounts at participating local businesses (Local Business Discount Program)
- Discounts on ACWB workshops, courses and events
- EXCLUSIVE access to have your profile on our online Artist Directory
- Access to FREE advisory and consultative services
- Letters of support for your various arts initiatives
- Connection to a community of professional and emerging artists
- Promotion to a large network through ACWB social media, website and eNewsletters
- Opportunity to be showcased through our NEW Featured Artist series
- Benefits taken from ACWB website for Individual Membership
- ** Ability for retail space in Arts Inc Marketplace
Criteria for Artisan Membership
- Proof of Local and Indigenous Status or Proof of Indigenous Status from a local Nation or Metis Nation if no longer residing within the RMWB.
- Short Profile description: what type of art pieces you create and history of who you are and how/when you started)**
- Photos of different pieces created. Video of work is also accepted**
- Logo if applicable or pictures to include in your directory profile**
**Support is available to complete your application. Please email experience@naaba.ca or call 780-791-0478 ext 2.
Membership Fee Payment Options for Annual Membership
- Gift in kind from Artisan’s collection that is valued by artist at $250.00 OR $250.00 membership fee
- Items will be used by NAABA for gifting, fundraising, and celebration
- All value of items is self-determined by the Artisan
- Artisan memberships will be renewed annually July 1
Membership Limitations
- Non-voting membership as an Artisan Membership