‘Reservation Dogs’ Co-Creator Sterlin Harjo Among 2024 MacArthur Genius Grant Recipients

As a lifelong cinephile who has spent countless hours immersed in the intricacies of storytelling and the art of filmmaking, I can confidently say that Sterlin Harjo’s recognition as a 2024 MacArthur Fellow is a truly momentous occasion. The fact that this prestigious award has been bestowed upon him for his exceptional work in telling the stories of contemporary Native Americans with humor and deep affection speaks volumes about the impact he has made on the industry, and the potential for future groundbreaking work that lies ahead.


The MacArthur Foundation has revealed the winners of its highly esteemed “Genius Award,” which is an unrestricted grant bestowed upon exceptional individuals who showcase remarkable creativity and promise within their respective domains.

This year’s fellowship celebrates 22 individuals for their significant achievements in the fields of art, science, and social activism. Among the recipients is Sterlin Harjo, an emerging filmmaker who has made a name for himself as co-creator, showrunner, and executive producer of the Emmy-nominated comedy series “Reservation Dogs” on FX.

The MacArthur Fellows Program chooses recipients based on three key factors: outstanding creativity, a history of significant achievements indicating potential for future groundbreaking advancements, and the ability for the fellowship to further stimulate creative work. According to the foundation, each selected individual receives a grant of $800,000 distributed in five equal installments over a period of five years.

The MacArthur Foundation is known colloquially as the giver of “Genius Grants,” which are unique in their approach to funding. Unlike most grants, there’s no formal application process involved. Instead, potential recipients are suggested by a diverse group of external nominees who are regularly changing. The foundation’s selection committee, comprised of influential figures from various fields such as arts, sciences, humanities, and both for-profit and non-profit sectors, reviews these nominations.

Below are the 2024 MacArthur Fellows:

Loka Ashwood, a Sociologist
“Providing insights into rural identities and cultures, as well as addressing the environmental, financial, and societal difficulties that numerous rural communities encounter.

Ruha Benjamin, a scholar and author with a transdisciplinary approach, highlights how technology perpetuates existing inequalities and advocates for the power of creativity in driving societal change.

Justin Vivian Bond is a multifaceted artist and entertainer, known for their work within the realm of cabaret, blending social commentary, empathy, and the celebration of queer happiness as the core elements of their act.

Examining modern culture and personal identity through pieces that blend innovative form and deep introspection, by the poet Jericho Brown.

Tony Cokes specializes in media art, focusing on producing videos that offer fresh perspectives on past events and cultural phenomena.

Nicola Dell, a computer information specialist, specializes in creating technological solutions aimed at meeting the requirements of often-neglected groups, particularly those who have experienced domestic abuse.

“Johnny Gandelsman, a violinist and music producer, is known for reinventing classic compositions and fostering the development of diverse musical styles.”

Filmmaker Sterlin Harjo specializes in narrating tales that portray the everyday lives of modern-day Native Americans, infused with a touch of humor and genuine warmth.

Juan Felipe Herrera, a poet, an educator, and a writer, is known for uplifting the rich cultural heritage of Chicanx communities and magnifying stories that resonate with unity, strength, and empowerment.

Ling Ma specializes in crafting narratives that blend elements of futuristic and current-day storytelling, focusing on themes such as estrangement, migration, and consumer culture.

Jennifer L. Morgan, a historian, delves deeper into uncovering the role that the exploitation of female slaves played in establishing racial slavery as an institution in early America and the Black Atlantic region.

Martha Muñoz, evolutionary biologist
“Investigating the motors and brakes of evolution.”

Shailaja Paik, a Historian, specializes in studying the crossroads of caste, femininity, and sexual orientation within contemporary India by examining the lives of Dalit females.

Joseph Parker, an expert in the field of evolutionary biology,” investigates the roots of symbiosis within rove beetles and the development of intricate characteristics among various species.

As a passionate cinephile, I delve into the realm of art, particularly my medium, where I craft visually captivating pieces. These masterpieces serve as platforms to investigate topics such as visibility, aesthetics, racial and social class dynamics, violence, loss, and renewal.

Shamel Pitts – A trailblazer in the realm of dance and choreography, known for creating innovative performance pieces that draw from the principles of Afrofuturism, and offering fresh perspectives on community-based methods of constructing worlds.

As a passionate appreciator, I’m captivated by Wendy Red Star’s artistic journey, where she delves into archives and crafts pieces that question traditional colonial histories.

Jason Reynolds, an author specializing in children’s and young adult literature, is known for portraying the complex inner worlds of multicultural youth, making sure these stories reflect them and their communities within the realm of literature.

Dorothy Roberts, a legal expert and researcher in public policy, highlights racial disparities within social service structures and amplifies the stories of those affected by these systems.

Keivan G. Stassun, an educator and astronomy expert, focusing on broadening access to STEM learning and jobs for groups traditionally underrepresented.

Exploring the role that microscopic life forms play in the circulation of essential elements for life within the oceans, by Benjamin Van Mooy, an oceanographer.

Alice Wong is a writer, editor, and advocate for disability justice who strives to amplify the political and cultural presence of individuals with disabilities and foster wider comprehension about disability.

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2024-10-02 04:17