Residency Project

gallupARTS is pleased to announce Diné poet, aerialist, and painter Meek Watchman as its Summer 2022 Social Justice Creative-in-Residence. From June through August, Meek will be working at ART123 Gallery to develop a youth-focused Indigenous social circus curriculum that brings together aerial arts, creative writing, and the principles of K’e to help pre-teens and teens build self-esteem, develop trust, and establish a sense of belonging.  

As part of researching and writing an innovative arts education program, Meek will be teaching an 8-week aerial arts intensive for two Indigenous youth and hosting a one-day aerial arts workshop for several more. The intensive program will culminate in a public performance and reception. Meek will also engage the public in understanding the power of circus arts for youth and community development through an introductory talk, a demo, and “window gallery” of black and white photography.