Empowering Communities Through Art, Culture, and Mentorship
Medicine Bear is a nonprofit arts organization using creativity to inspire belonging, healing, and transformation.
About Medicine Bear
We believe that healing begins with creativity and culture. Through murals, mentorship, and Indigenous practices, Medicine Bear creates pathways for our community members to rediscover identity, purpose, and belonging.
50+
Community driven public art projects
3rd
Generation
Our Programs & Initiatives
RedStone Collective at the Juvenile Detention Center
Inside detention, youth connect with culture and healing through art, ceremony, and storytelling.
Artist Apprenticeship Program
System-impacted youth work alongside profesgggists to create murals across Portland.
Community Art Projects & Consultation
Medicine Bear collaborates with schools, nonprofits, local governments, and tribal organizations to design and lead community-driven art projects that promote healing, cultural pride, and connection.
"The traditions have taught me to help people and spread positivity.”
"I will forever carry my new art techniques Rudy has taught me."
-Program Participant Testimonial
How you can get involved
Medicine Bear thrives on collaboration. We invite community partners, artists, and cultural leaders to join us in creating meaningful art and opportunities for youth.
Artists & Culture Bearers
If you’re an artist, educator, or tradition keeper who believes in the power of creativity to heal and inspire, we welcome you to join our growing network of mentors and instructors. Together, we guide youth through mural projects, workshops, and cultural teachings rooted in tradition and purpose.
Community Partners
Collaborate with us to bring creative healing into your community. We work with schools, nonprofits, local governments, and tribal organizations to design art and culture programs that uplift youth and families
Public Art, Murals & Consulting
Medicine Bear offers public art design, mural creation, and cultural consulting services for organizations and municipalities. Our approach combines community engagement, professional artistry, and cultural integrity to bring shared spaces to life.
