Our 2024 Art Grant Winners!

We are excited to announce our 2024 Art Grant winners! This year, we are awarding grants to three separate art projects. Read on to find out more about each of these special projects!

Nate Holbein with “Reclamation of a Stolen Heart”

A 10 foot tall fabricated steel heart sculpture with accommodating benches and fire pit, “Reclamation of a Stolen Heart” will act as a rebirth of what was lost in the dust. Inlaid with a series of intricate moving parts that will allow for various forms of interaction and using mostly found objects and reclaimed materials, the heart will be divided into several sections that provide opportunities to explore the piece in further detail. The combination of various moving parts and lighting will create an ever-changing experience that represents the complex and ever-evolving love that we all share. “Reclamation of a Stolen Heart” is taking an experience of loss and turning it into an opportunity to share a communal installation with the very community that facilitated the loss that inspired its conception. It will act as a pure expression of acceptance and forgiveness. This piece will be an attempt to take a negative thing that we have all experienced (losing something that we care about) and turn it into something positive. Nate says he would like for this installation to provide some sort of solace for anyone who has had to repair something in their heart. We love the message behind the piece, and we are delighted to help make it come to life. “Reclamation of a Stolen Heart” has also been awarded an Honorarium grant from Burning Man and will debut in Black Rock City 2024.

Colie Miranda with “Humasterpiece”

A participatory installation featuring a golden-framed bench where individuals can transform into living masterpieces, “Humasterpiece” is designed for capturing photos, the well-lit gold frame allows usage in both nighttime and dim environments, powered by solar energy. By taking a seat within this framed space, individuals become an integral part of the artwork, blurring the lines between observer and subject, and fostering a dynamic connection between the art and its audience. Colie has been an active participant of Namaste & Chill since the beginning of the organization, and we are thrilled to support her first art installation. “Humasterpiece” will debut at the Namaste & Chill camp at unSCruz 2024.

Monique Asha with “Belly Dancing Costumes”

Embodying freedom of movement and self-expression, feminine energy dance and
unique costuming, Monique’s Light Worker costume and Golden Tribal Fusion costume are designed for performance art. These intricate costumes will dazzle viewers, and Monique will help set the energy with the rapport she creates with participants. Monique has been a staple at Namaste & Chill events with her unique blend of flow arts, performance art, and workshops. We are excited to see her new costumes, debuting at unSCruz 2024!