Honorary Doctorate of Arts
Niillas was promoted as an Honorary doctor of Arts by the University of Lapland. The Faculty of Arts: Niillas Holmberg is a versatile, multifield Sámi artist of the young generation. Holmberg is well known as a poet, author, scriptwriter, musician, and activist, living in his home region in Utsjoki. The Sámi and nature are often regarded as being the core of his expression. Holmberg promotes sustainable development with themes that adhere to Arctic art and to the northern cultural environment and lifestyle. Holmberg has earned his merits through the development of art, northern culture, and especially modern Sámi art.