Rehoming Program

​The Coe Center’s Rehoming Program is an initiative to return its collection of Indigenous artworks to their original communities or to institutions that prioritize accessibility and cultural context. This effort ensures that these culturally significant pieces are preserved and appreciated within their rightful heritage.

Reflecting: Celebrating Art, Community, and Embracing Change
In 2007, a life-changing phone call from my Uncle Ted (Ralph T. Coe) marked the beginning of a journey I never anticipated. That was the day he asked me to start his non-profit once he was gone. Now, reflecting on past programs at the Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, we immerse ourselves in a rich tapestry of Indigenous arts, community engagement, and transformative experiences. Each program, a unique chapter in the Coe Center’s narrative, contributes to the vibrant cultural fabric defining its mission.

The Restructuring Initiative: A Reflection on the Coe Center’s Final Journey
As the Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts prepares to conclude operations at the end of 2025, we reflect with deep gratitude on our journey. Our Restructuring Initiative and Rehoming Program have focused on returning meaningful works to Indigenous communities and like-minded institutions, ensuring their accessibility, care, and continued life. This final newsletter marks the closing of one chapter—and the continuation of our legacy through ethical stewardship, cultural exchange, and enduring partnerships.

Rehoming Program Participants (In Progress)
The following is a selection of rehoming participants with whom we have either completed Deeds of Gift or are well along in the process. As additional agreements are finalized, this list will continue to grow, reflecting the evolving and collaborative nature of this important work.

Penobscot Nation Museum
Plains Art Museum
Pueblo of Acoma
Pueblo of Cochiti
Pueblo of Jemez
Pueblo of Santa Ana
Pueblo of Taos
Pueblo of Zia
Quapaw Nation
School for Advanced Research
Seminole Nation
Seneca-Iroquois National Museum
Shelburne Museum
Toledo Museum of Art
Tibetan Association of Santa Fe
Tomaquag Museum

Dear Friends, Supporters, and Community Members,

We are deeply moved by the overwhelming response to our call for Rehoming Program proposals (RFP) regarding the future of the Coe Collection. Your innovative ideas and passionate commitment to caring for and advancing world Indigenous arts have truly inspired us.

Each proposal received reflects a profound understanding of the Coe Center’s mission to increase awareness, education, and appreciation of Indigenous arts through hands-on experiences. Your creativity in approaching community engagement and educational initiatives ensures the Coe Collection’s strong future.

We appreciate everyone who has taken the time to interact with us, showing support for the Coe Center’s intent with both the Collection RFP and the Coe Center’s overall Restructuring Process.

We are especially grateful for the engagement of the home communities throughout this process. Your patience, understanding, and support as we navigate this new territory have been invaluable. 

Although we are well into the Rehoming Program process, we look forward to the next chapter in this journey. Please stay tuned for updates. Thank you all again for your dedication, support, and shared passion.

With heartfelt gratitude,

—The Coe Center Team

Hands, Hearts, and Homecomings

Visual reflections of cultural stewardship, shared purpose, and return.