Local artist designs featured on Tribal Broadband Bootcamp hoodies
Meka Hevewah (second from left) and Curtis Hevewah (center) recognized at the Tribal Business Center council chambers for their digital designs on December 4.
By BREE BAKER
Sho-Ban News
FORT HALL — On December 4, two digital artists Curtis and Meka Hevewah were recognized and rewarded for their artwork that was chosen to be featured on the sweatshirts for the Tribal Broadband Bootcamp (TBB).
The Inland Northwest Tribal Broadband Coalition (INTBC) consists of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Colville Tribe, Nez Perce Tribe, Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, and Spokane Tribe. They co-hosted the Tribal Broadband Bootcamp 15 from November 18-21, in Spokane, Wash.
“The TBB is a 3-day intensive learning experience focused on building and running Tribal Internet networks. TBB’s primary goal is to foster a network of Indigenous people working across Indian Country to build broadband networks and develop the best practices needed to ensure communities have high quality Internet access if they want it.” The TBB is “Strengthening sovereignty and self-determination by building local broadband solutions.” The INTBC was approved for a $400 budget for artwork that would represent the five tribes in the coalition. Curtis and Meka Hevewah each entered their artwork for the hoodie design contest and both of their designs were selected.
On December 4, Fort Hall Business Council Secretary Ladd Edmo, Land Use Director Preston Buckskin, and Tribal Broadband Manager Francis Goli read the letter of congratulations, shared a few words, and presented the awards to the couple for their contributions to the Tribal Broadband Coalition.
In the letter of recognition read by Goli she said “Your creative and inspiring artwork made a profound impact and INTBC are proud to have it featured on the official sweatshirt design.
Your contribution exemplifies the remarkable talent and cultural pride within our community.”
Goli said everyone at the bootcamp loved their designs, also saying “Your work has not only showcased your artistic abilities but also contributed to the success and spirit of the event, leaving a lasting impression on all participants.”
The Hevewah’s each submitted their own designs, and they were both selected to be featured on the hoodie. Curtis Hevewah said he likes the idea of fusing both of their designs together.
When asked to explain his design he shared it “originates from our tribe, we’re a teepee people.”
He described it as a teepee with different technology symbols incorporated into it, showing it has the broadband and Wi-Fi signal, IT symbol, and electrical board.
When Meka Hevewah explained her design, she had a lot of artwork lying around so she picked one that stood out and added to it incorporating the technological symbols into her geometric design. They went with a “traditional mixed with technology” design.
The artists received a letter of congratulations for their contributions for the INTBC, a $200 monetary award, a $20 Starbucks gift card, and the Tribal Broadband Bootcamp sweatshirts featuring their designs.
