Our Story

Native art is rarely taught in depth and even more rarely written about with care. When writing about Indigenous artists does appear in mainstream spaces, it is often rushed, poorly fact-checked and filtered through tourist expectations rather than Native voices. In 2013, artist, writer, and curator America Meredith (Cherokee Nation) launched First American Art Magazine to change that. Drawing on a lifetime immersed in the Native art world in Oklahoma and years studying and teaching Indigenous art history, Meredith created a publication that centers Native people, perspectives, and scholarship while covering the full spectrum of Indigenous creative work across the Americas.

From its earliest issues, FAAM set out to challenge stereotypes and expand the conversation about Native art beyond a handful of widely profiled artists. The magazine quickly grew into an international network of Indigenous writers, artists, and scholars, publishing quarterly issues, hosting symposia and workshops, and creating resources for artists and researchers. Built through collaboration, community knowledge, and a strong commitment to accuracy, FAAM continues to document the vibrant and evolving world of Indigenous art.

Curious how it all began? Read the full story in our Spring 2023 10th Anniversary Issue and explore a decade of Indigenous art writing, community building and creative exchange.

Our Team