Santa Fe, NM

Holidays in the Southwest

SWAIA’s Winter Market rings in the holiday season in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Tinsel in the windows, strands of twinkling lights in the trees, festive aromas coming from all the open shops and restaurants—few places celebrate Christmas like Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Artists and collectors at the Sante Fe Community Convention Center during SWAIA’s Winter Market..

Artists Keith Edaakie and Leanne Lee at SWAIA’s Winter Market.

It all was on display for SWAIA’s Winter Market on December 3 and 4 at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center in Downtown Santa Fe. More than 100 artists were present to display their artwork, everything from weavings and textiles to pottery and basketry, and so much more.

Artists on hand included basketmaker Jessica Lomatewama, who was showing her uniquely designed, colorful baskets; and sculptor Sean Rising Sun Flanagan, who works with a variety of metals for his large free-standing pieces. Jewelry was an especially hot commodity at the indoor market, with artists such as Ivan Howard, Estella Loretto, Maria Samora, Tim Blueflint Ramel, Norbert Peshlakai and many others showing their newest pieces.

Jeweler Ivan Howard and his wife at their booth.

Sculptor Sean Rising Sun Flanagan with some of his work at Winter Market.

Artists Keith Edaakie and Leanne Lee were showcasing miniature painted skateboards, which were a huge hit and sold out. Many other artists offered holiday ornaments, nativity scenes and other Christmas-themed pieces.

Basketmaker Jessica Lomatewama with some of her baskets.

Jeweler Estella Loretto.

“We have a great turnout,” says SWAIA acting director Jamie Schulze. “And it’s always lovely to be in Santa Fe this time of year.”

In addition to the artist booths, there was also live music and performances, as well as a raffle and silent auction.

The Winter Market is the smaller and more intimate sister of SWAIA’s Santa Fe Indian Market, which takes place in August in the streets around the Santa Fe Plaza. In the past it has been held at La Fonda hotel, but was moved in 2022 to the convention center, home to many of the events of the August market.