Native Authors & Artists Series

Specifically designed to introduce K-12 educators and librarians to books by Dakota and Ojibwe authors and illustrators, you are invited to the February 4, 2025, Native Authors & Artists Series event.  Each gathering features an interview and Q&A with the guest presenter, and time in the Perpich Library to peruse their collection of books by Native authors.

The special guest for Tuesday, February 4, is Sam Zimmerman, a direct descendant of the Grant Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa (Ojibwe).  Sam is in a unique position to connect his art and K-12 education, having worked more than 20 years as a special education teacher and school administrator.  

Sam's art continues the Anishinaabe tradition of storytelling with themes of environmental stewardship and conservation.  His first book, Following My Spirit Home, is a collection of paintings and stories from his first year back in Minnesota after living on the East Coast.  His artwork is held in private collections in the United States and abroad, and in public installations in the Chik Wauk Museum and Nature Center, Voyageur National Park, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and the communities of Duluth and Grand Marais.  Sam has received grant awards from the Minnesota State Arts Board, Arrowhead Regional Arts Council, Northland Foundation Maada'ookiing, and Duluth Superior Community Foundation.

The first 40 people attending this event will receive a copy of How the Birds Got their Songs (2024) by Travis Zimmerman, illustrated by Sam Zimmerman.  

Details:
There is no cost to attend the event.
Light snacks will be provided.
A clock hours form will be available following the session.
Shortly after February 4, a video recording of the interview will be posted on the Perpich Center's Native Authors & Artist webpage.

Click here to register for the event.

Location:
Perpich Center for Arts Education - Main Buiding (enter through main doors)
6125 Olson Memorial Highway
Golden Valley, MN  55422