Tristan Grant performing as Wolf Castle. Photo supplied by Wolf Castle.
A new grant through Music NB will offer emerging Indigenous artists an opportunity for funding of a future project.
The $3,000 grant is sponsored by Tristan Grant, a Mi’kmaq artist who performs under the name Wolf Castle.
Grant says he knows first hand the obstacles Indigenous artists face when they start out in the music industry in New Brunswick.
“If you come from a reserve or a rural area, there’s no venues around, there’s no industry that’s easily accessible,” said Grant, who is from Pabineau First Nation. “It’s hard to figure out what to do going forward.”
The emerging artists grant can be used toward any music-based project, including recording a music video or recording costs.
Grant credits his beginning in the music industry with connections he made through the ECMA awards in 2016.
“The only way I got to where I was as an artist is from mentorship, support from my family members, other artists and industry people.”
Grant attended Mount Allison University, where he said there was an Indigenous student support group to help with culture shock, which was common for those leaving the reserve to attend classes.
He wants the emerging artist grant to help break down barriers between cultures and allow all aspiring musicians to feel welcome.
“It’s a way to level the playing field and let fans of music know there is an Indigenous music scene that exists here,” says Grant. “I know there’s a lot of Indigenous artists out there… and I don’t want them to lose hope on that journey.”
“This grant I want to be a step in the direction of finding new Indigenous artists and creating this scene that exists and can exist alongside all the other scenes.”
It’s taken Grant a long time to feel like he’s gotten his feet under him in the industry. By sponsoring the Music NB grant, he hopes to help the upcoming generation of Indigenous artists hit the ground running.
“I always wanted to create a space or an environment in life in general, where people can be comfortable and be able to do the things they love. Now I’m in a position where it’s the right time for it.”
