November 5, 2022 | Cherokee, NC

Cherokee Fashions

The Kananesgi Art Market and Fashion Show gears up for an in-person event full of fashion and art by talented Cherokee artists.

First launched in 2018 and organized by both the Sequoyah Fund and the Ray Kinsland Leadership Institute, the Kananesgi Art Market and Fashion Show returns to showcase and support Eastern Band Cherokee Indian artists (EBCI). The event kicks off at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino and Resort, with the market at the Riverwalk Shops from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on November 5, and ends in the Council Fire Ballroom with the fashion show at 5:30 p.m. New to this year’s event is the First Fire Art Competition, where prize money is awarded to artists in 11 art categories.

Faith Long (Cherokee), Ganvhida Designs, Elk at Night Evening Wear, sewing, graphic design, custom evening dress in satin with black satin sash, women’s size 10

“What’s special about the Kananesgi Art Market and Fashion Show is that the show was built for artists and designers to give them an opportunity to be creative, have professional and business development training, increase workforce development and to empower our people by encouraging them to learn about and physically express their Cherokee identity,” reads the event website. “These events serve as learning and gathering opportunities.”

Betty Maney (Cherokee), Hope Hat, beaded rancher hat, #11 Miyuki Delicas beads in custom design, commission. Julie Painter, Visage Salon, hair.Patrons can expect to see 35-plus artists and makers at the market that includes contemporary and traditional art, along with fashion and accessories for sale. The fashion show will feature EBCI designs and will include guest designers like Kenny Glass, a textile and beadwork artist; and Luke and Tabytha Swimmer, who have a clothing and design brand called Buffalotown.

Luke Swimmer (Cherokee), Buffalotown, Untitled Fabric, graphic design/custom fabric, cotton

“[Designers at the show] feature original and traditional patterns for children and adults alike,” notes the event press release. They bring a Cherokee twist to contemporary fashion that is comfortable and fashionable.”

Betty Maney (Cherokee), Hope Hat, beaded rancher hat, #11 Miyuki Delicas beads in custom design, commission. Julie Painter, Visage Salon, hair.

Tonya Carroll, Kananesgi Committee member, expresses “this event is an opportunity for all Cherokee people to be proud of their unique art and design. We are humbled and excited to be a small part of this amazing, collaborative showcase of Native art and culture.”

Head to the event website for tickets, updates and additional show information.

November 5, 2022
The Kananesgi Art Market and Fashion Show
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino & Resort
777 Casino Drive, Cherokee, NC 28719
(828) 359-5005, www.kananesgi.com