Creativity Saves Lives
EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN - Willard Malebear Jr.
Willard Malebear Jr., enrolled in the Standing Rock Reservation, is a dedicated leader and advocate in the Minneapolis community. As the owner of Iktomi Tattoo, he has fostered a space that uplifts Indigenous artistry while mentoring both emerging and seasoned tattoo artists. Beyond his entrepreneurial work, Willard is a passionate advocate for recovering ex-incarcerated individuals, drawing from his own journey as a proud father with over seven years of sobriety. His commitment to cultural revitalization, wellness, and social justice fuels his leadership, as he continues to create inclusive spaces where creativity, healing, and empowerment thrive.
Colin Cash
Colin Cash is the Co-chairman of Art Shelf’s Board of Directors and a dedicated advocate for community, creativity, and cultural revitalization. With a strong background in organizing and public service, Colin brings a thoughtful, grounded presence to Art Shelf’s leadership. His passion for equity, accessibility, and creative expression helps guide Art Shelf’s mission to make art and wellness available to all.
Holly Henning
Holly Henning, known by her nêhiyawak (Cree) name Miskitoos and her Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) name Gimiwnaaabo-Ikwe, serves as the Secretary of Art Shelf’s Board of Directors. She is an enrolled member of Marten Falls Anishinaabe First Nation, with paternal ties to Constance Lake Oji-Cree First Nation in Northern Ontario, and proudly carries the Bear Clan responsibilities of medicine, healing, and protection. With over 15 years of leadership in youth homelessness and culturally specific programming, Holly brings deep experience in direct service, street outreach, grant writing, and program development. She is also a powerful artist and jingledress dancer who uses creativity and culture as tools for healing and change. A mother and survivor, Holly’s lived experience and leadership help guide Art Shelf’s mission to center wellness, community, and cultural expression in all we do.
Kiley Benson
Kiley Benson serves as the Treasurer of Art Shelf’s Board of Directors and brings a deep commitment to community service, sustainability, and nonprofit innovation. As Executive Director of Loaves & Fishes, Kiley has led transformative initiatives including the award-winning HUB program, a groundbreaking model that allows nonprofit partners to access food at just 19 cents per pound. He also launched a robust street outreach program delivering warm meals to people experiencing homelessness and expanded their food rescue operations to recover over 9 million pounds of food annually. Recognized as the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits’ 2018 Catalytic Leader, Kiley’s strategic leadership and financial insight help ensure Art Shelf’s stability and growth as we continue to expand access to creativity and wellness across our community.