Open Call: Indigenous river people – Northern People of the Year 2026

Riddu Riđđu invites artists and tradition bearers belonging to Indigenous River communities in the North to apply to take part in the delegation for the Northern People of the Year 2026.  

In 2026, Riddu Riđđu will honor Indigenous River peoples from Alaska, Turtle Island/Canada, Kalaallit Nunaat, Sápmi, and the Ainu territories in Japan. 

Who can apply? 

This Open Call is open to Indigenous artists, cultural practitioners, and tradition bearers who: 

  • have a connection to rivers as a cultural, linguistic, spiritual, or material foundation of life 

  • work within art, culture, handicraft, storytelling traditions, music, performing arts, visual arts, or other cultural expressions 

  • identify as Indigenous in northern regions 

  • have ties to Alaska, Turtle Island/Canada, Kalaallit Nunaat, Sápmi, or the Ainu territories in Japan 

We encourage both elders and youth, as well as established and emerging voices, to apply. 

 

What does participation involve? 

Selected applicants will be invited to take part as members of the Northern People of the Year delegation during the Riddu Riđđu Festival 2026. Participation may include: 

  • artistic presentations or cultural contributions during the festival 

  • participation in conversations, meetings, and knowledge exchange 

  • networking with Sámi artists and other Indigenous peoples from the North 

Riddu Riđđu will cover travel, accommodation, per diem, and artist fees for participation. 

 

Why Indigenous river people? 

For Indigenous peoples in the North, rivers are more than landscapes. They are the foundation of life, movement, and knowledge, and they connect people, languages, and practices across generations. When rivers are polluted, regulated, or disappear, the consequences extend far beyond nature itself. 

At the same time, rivers and waterways are under increasing pressure from climate change, pollution, and development. These challenges are not only environmental issues, but also matters of Indigenous rights and self-determination. 

By bringing Indigenous river people together as the Northern People of the Year, Riddu Riđđu aims to highlight Indigenous perspectives, experiences, and solutions, and to create space for exchange, collaboration, and solidarity across borders. 

 

How to apply 

The application should include: 

  • a short presentation of yourself and your Indigenous and river connections 

  • a description of your artistic or cultural practice 

  • a proposal for how you would like to contribute during Riddu Riđđu 2026 

  • any relevant links, images, or documentation of previous work 

Application deadline: February 27 

Send your application to: [email protected] 
Please mark the email with “Open Call – Northern People of the Year” 

More information here.