Five years ago, Free Indian Market, produced by Gregory Schaaf, was created to fulfill a need, or rather, provide a space for Native elder artists to return to what they refer to as “the gool old days”—when everything was free for the artists and for the public. The market began with 68 artists, mostly pueblo and Navajo elders, and has grown today to include the artists’ families and those that were not selected to participate in SWAIA’s Santa Fe Indian Market. This year will have close to 600 artists in all artwork categories.
Duane Maktima (Hopi/Laguna), Honoring the Ancients, natural turquoise bracelet set in sterling silver with Rain Cloud design, ca. 2021. Photo courtesy of artist.
“The goal has been to help Native artists, so they are the ones that go home with all the money,” Schaaf explains. “A lot of them explain to us that the only way they know how to support themselves is through their artwork, so we created this parallel show to serve anyone left out.”
Also unique to the market is the dissolution of awards and ribbons. “Because a lot of the [seasoned and elder artists] have already won hundreds of ribbons over the years, and they wanted to return to the really good old days when there was no competition,” says Schaaf. In addition, the market has invited Indigenous artists all over the world to participate, including those from Canada, the Pacific Islands, Mexico, and South and Central America.
Shonto Begay (Diné (Navajo)), GAAGI’ CAL, acrylic on canvas, 30 x 40." Photo by Tom Alexander, courtesy of artist.
Among the stunning works of art displayed will be pieces like the turquoise cuff bracelet pictured here, created by the renowned Duane Maktima (Hopi/Laguna). It features historically used heishi turquoise beads and a raincloud design, serving as a prayer for rain. “It represents the transition between the ancient past and the contemporary present,” says Schaaf.
Attendees will be privy to music and Native fashion designs, with a fashion show to close the market on Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. This year will not include a silent auction to make space for more artist booths.
August 20-21, 2022, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Free Indian Market
Federal Park and Scottish Rite Temple, Washington Avenue and Paseo de Peralta, Santa Fe, NM 87501
www.facebook.com/freeindianmarketshow
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