The Architecture Foundation of Oregon (AFO) has selected three Portland State University students in the Schnitzer School of Art + Art History + Design as the 2024 Tsagaglalal Scholars. Genavieve Beans (Art Practice), Rylah Pasicaran (Graphic Design), and Cyrilla (Cy) Rides Horse (Art + Design) are this year’s recipients.
The Tsagaglalal Scholarship is a renewable $10,000 scholarship awarded to Native American, Alaskan Native, and Hawaiian Native non-graduating students pursuing a degree in Art or Architecture at Portland State University.
“We are incredibly proud of these three exceptionally creative and dedicated art and design students for their achievement in winning the prestigious Tsagaglalal Scholarship.” said Lis Charman, Director of the Schnitzer School of Art + Art History + Design. “Their passion, talent, and hard work have truly shone in their classes, and we are excited to see how they will continue to inspire and innovate in the field of art and design.”
Genavieve Beans, a Yup’ik Alaskan Native and enrolled member of Pilot Station Traditional Village, is in her first year at Portland State University pursuing a bachelor’s degree in art practice. Genavieve works in a variety of media, from painting to building paper maché masks inspired by her Yup’ik heritage. She plans to continue expanding her repertoire while at PSU, exploring various materials such as wood and metal, and developing skills that will set her on a path toward her professional goals.
“My career goals range from showcasing my art at local festivals and coffee shops to exhibiting in galleries, museums, and public spaces,” said Genavieve. “I want my art to stimulate thought, spark conversation, and challenge societal norms in everyday surroundings within the reach of everyday people.”
Rylah Pasicaran is a first-year student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in graphic design. She draws inspiration for her work from her Native Hawaiian heritage, hoping to one day combine her love of graphic design and storytelling to create children’s books that explore Hawaiian stories from a Hawaiian perspective.
“I love myths and legends from my culture and I specifically love telling them to others,” said Rylah. “Our kupuna (elders) tell us stories that their kupunas told them and what I want most is to become an illustrator and give the myths life so more of the younger generations can also eagerly learn about Hawaiian culture and mythology.”
Cyrilla (Cy) Rides Horse, Apsáalooke and enrolled member of the Crow Tribe, is currently pursuing their bachelor’s degree in art + design at Portland State University. Cy draws inspiration from their indigenous heritage and their late father and four siblings in their art. Through their art, they hope to become a mentor to indigenous people and create more pathways for them to pursue art as a profession.
“I want to nurture a community of Indigenous individuals in Portland so that we can share our ideas about art and how it can continue to be used to bring the beauty of our cultures to everyday life,” said Cy. “Through art I can create a life that my family and I can be proud of, one that I hope will help to preserve our history and create a better future for generations to come.”
The Tsagaglalal Scholarship was established in 2022 in honor of Lilian Pitt, the AFO’s 2022 Honored Citizen. The Tsagaglalal Scholarship honors the legend of Tsagaglalal, who, it is believed, watches over and provides opportunities for tribal youth to excel. The Legend of Tsagaglalal can be read here.
The Architectural Foundation of Oregon will celebrate the accomplishments of these inspiring young artists and creators at the annual Scholarship Reception on May 16. To learn more about the scholarship and past recipients visit the Architecture Foundation of Oregon’s website.