The Coe Center and Lightning Boy Foundation Celebrate Indigenous Art Through Hoop Dance
The Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts is thrilled to unveil the final iteration of its Hands-On Program, marking the culmination of this innovative programming. As part of our organizational Restructuring Project, we are concluding the Coe Center’s programs on a high note, reimagining how youth engage with Indigenous art and traditions through a special focus on the dynamic art of hoop dancing.
In collaboration with the Lightning Boy Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and teaching Indigenous dance traditions, we are amplifying the cultural impact of our Hands-On program. Students aged three to twenty-five will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of hoop dance—a vibrant and expressive art form deeply rooted in Indigenous healing ceremonies. This dance, symbolizing the “never-ending circle of life,” reflects interconnectedness and cultural resilience.
Anjalee 2024
From September 2024 through February 2025, weekly sessions introduce participants to the rich history, techniques, and storytelling aspects of hoop dance. Led by accomplished dancers from the Lightning Boy Foundation, students explore everything from the symbolism of the hoops to choreography and performance planning. The program provides a supportive environment where young artists can express themselves creatively while developing valuable skills in collaboration and presentation.
Experienced mentors guide each student’s artistic journey, offering personalized feedback and insights inspiring the love of cultural arts. The program culminates in a public performance in February 2025, providing hands-on experience with live audiences such as you, and contributing to the sustainability of future this important art form. This approach not only supports artistic growth but also strengthens cultural connections and community ties, while growing life-long skills.
Isaiah 2024
To ensure inclusivity, classes are held after school either at the Coe Center and other community venues, with transportation coordinated to facilitate participation. We serve students from across Santa Fe, including those attending Pojoaque Valley Schools, Tesuque Day School, Santa Fe Public Schools, and Santa Fe Indian School. This broad reach fosters diverse community connections and audiences.
As the Coe Center celebrates this final chapter of Hands-On Programs, we are grateful for the support that has made it possible. We send a warm and huge thank you to all those individual supporters who have been with us for the entire journey—thank you! To our sponsors and the New Mexico Arts, we are especially thrilled that this vibrant endeavor is supported by you, allowing us to conclude the series on an exciting and impactful note.
Tiny Tots 2024
At the Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, we believe in the power of hands-on, experiential learning to connect people with art. This Hands-On Program, centering around traditional hoop dance, exemplifies this philosophy. We invite you to join us in February in celebrating and preserving Indigenous arts while nurturing the next generation of cultural ambassadors and artists in New Mexico. Please stay tuned for more information and the date.
This project is supported in part by New Mexico Arts, a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs, and by the National Endowment for the Arts.