Our Focus is Zuni
In 2016, the Keshi Foundation became a public 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. Its staff and all-volunteer Board support sustainable pathways and opportunities to benefit the people of Zuni Pueblo, NM, and their art-based economy.
The Museum of Zuni Art (MoZA) provides a connection to the rich Zuni artistic heritage for contemporary and future Zuni artists as well as an educational introduction to a broader audience experiencing their first exposure to this magnificent artwork.
The Zuni Artist Resource Team (Z-ART) expands Zuni artists’ market access both online and in-person by acting as The Museum of Zuni Art gift shop.
The MoZA and Z-ART location in Gallup, NM, which is just off of the Interstate 40 main east-west tourist route yet only 40 miles from the heart of the Zuni Pueblo, enables Zunis to participate in the arts and tourism economy while maintaining a close connection to their culture.
Retention and transmission of valued, and in some cases endangered, Zuni skills across generations is a continuing priority for both MoZA and Z-ART, reflecting Zuni community concerns.
The Museum of Zuni Art
The Museum of Zuni Art (MoZA) displays museum quality work in a location that is easy to access by the wider community.
To create the initial inventory for MoZA and Z-ART, Foundation followers, collectors of Zuni art, and Zuni artists donated artwork.
Many donated pieces include works by artists no longer producing. These pieces form the basis of the MoZA collection.
MoZA continues to accept donations, and works with the Zuni to identify where the pieces belong.
Strategic Intentions:
The Zuni Artist Resource Team
Z-ART works to invigorate Zuni artists’ market access online and in-person. Z-ART provides training and a marketplace for Zuni artists to sell their work. Z-ART also acts as the MoZA gift shop.
Z-ART offers training and mentorship, instilling confidence and promoting self-determination.
Z-ART has moved through four planned stages:
Created a space for photographing and evaluating artwork for the Z-ART website.
Established e-commerce.
Began direct purchases of Zuni artwork at fair market prices.
Created face-to-face retail space in the historic Gallup downtown area, renowned for Native American arts.
• Continue to grow MoZA and Z-ART with guidance from the Zuni Advisory Committee.
• Support the growth and development of our Zuni management team in Gallup.
• Continue developing meaningful partnerships with the arts, tourism and education communities in both Gallup and Zuni.
• Strengthen the long-term sustainability of The Keshi Foundation.