One of Santa Fe’s most iconic and popular events is one that pays tribute to the Indigenous people of the United States and Canada. The Santa Fe Indian Market provides a spectacular opportunity for Native American artists to exhibit and sell their art over the two days of the market on and around the Santa Fe Plaza. Organized by SWAIA, Southwestern Association for Indian Arts, this event draws thousands of collectors to Santa Fe to stroll the booths, speak with the artists, and perhaps take home something special. The Santa Fe Indian Market takes over the Santa Fe Plaza, August 19 – 20, 2023.
Since 1922, Santa Fe Indian Market has been North America’s largest and most important juried Indigenous art market. Originally focused on the Indigenous art of northern New Mexico, the Market has expanded over the years to include all Indigenous artists working in the United States and Canada. And, though it began as a weekend art market, it has not only grown in scope, but has been endorsed by all of Santa Fe’s most prestigious art galleries and cultural institutions.
The Indian Market itself, on Saturday and Sunday provides not only hours of visual stimulation and shopping frenzy – for everything from paintings, sculpture, woodcarving, pottery, weaving and other traditional artforms – there will also be live entertainment on the Plaza from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Traditional music and dance, contemporary Indigenous musicians, and displays of cultural pride give the Market a festive and colorful veneer of excitement.
But, SWAIA’s events don’t stop when the market closes at the end of the day. A highlight of the event this year will be the organization’s Gala, Fashion Show and Auctions, which takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center.
In past years a favorite among attendees has always been the Indigenous Fashion Show, on Sunday, giving voice to some of the most exciting designers working within tribal cultures. This year it takes place at the Convention Center, starting at 3 p.m. That event is followed closely by the Indigenous Fashion Trunk Show, which gives ticket holders to the fashion show the opportunity to buy directly from the designers on display.
Welcome the fall with the Santa Fe Indian Market, one of the most prestigious events held in New Mexico. For more information, visit the website, or call 505-983-5220.
This article was posted by Cheryl Fallstead
