About Benjamin Harjo Fund
Our Mission
Our mission is to honor Benjamin Harjo, Jr.’s (Absentee Shawnee, Seminole) life and legacy. Qualifying Indigenous artists needing assistance will receive funds to cover expenses incurred participating in art markets and exhibitions.
Our Story
In 2024, the Benjamin Harjo, Jr. Artist Fund began as a way to honor Ben's spirit of generosity. Ben was the ultimate giver, and he knew how blessed he was to be a full-time artist. Along with his wife Barbara, helping other artists was a key part of their personal philosophy. In the wake of his passing in 2023, this nonprofit was established by his close friends and colleagues--his chosen family. With the full support of his wife Barbara, and with generous donations, we will be able to continue to help Native American artists share their culture and talent with the world.
The Benjamin Harjo Fund Board of Directors
Jackie Sevier (Northern Arapaho)
Jackie is a visual artist working in mixed media, pastels and printmaking. Based in Seneca, Nebraska, Jackie is from the Wind River reservation in Wyoming.
Traci Rabbit (Cherokee)
With her art practice, Traci keeps one foot steeped in her Cherokee roots and the other exploring the possibilities of applying modern technology. She continues to build upon the legacy her artist father, Bill Rabbit, left behind. She never forgets that without God and family, none of this would be possible. Traci was selected as a Cherokee National Treasure in 2020.
Gary McNeill, D.V.M.
Gary graduated from Oklahoma State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. He was best friends with Ben for nearly 40 years. It was his veterinary practice that first brought him together with Ben and Barbara Harjo as their "family" physician. It all began with a rabbit named Bunny, who is featured in several of Ben's paintings.
Virgil M. Harry, III (Choctaw)
Virgil is retired after 30 years in the field of residential and commercial real estate finance. He also serves on the board of Red Earth, Inc.
Vivian Cottrell (Cherokee)
Vivian was designated a Cherokee National Living Treasure in Basketry in September 1995. She is a generational basketweaver descended from a long line of basketmakers, including her mother, aunts, grandmother, and great-grandfather.
Mariah L. Ashbacher, Ph.D.
Mariah is currently the Visiting Assistant Professor of Art History at New Mexico State University. Based in Oklahoma City, she also teaches at the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma Community College.
Join Benjamin Harjo Fund's Mission
Together, we can create a brighter future for those in need.