More than 500 artists will have artwork available at Free Indian Market on August 19 and 20. The annual show, which uses the motto “Honor the Elders and Respect the Artists,” takes place at Federal Park, just north of Santa Fe Indian Market, allowing easy access between the two shows during the third weekend in August when Santa Fe becomes the center of the art world.
Crowds gather in front of artist George Wills’ booth at Free Indian Market in 2022. Photo by Angie Schaaf.
Gary and Elsie Yoyokie (Hopi and Navajo), silver bracelets. Courtesy the artists.
Founded five years ago, Free Indian Market provides free booth spaces for Traditional Elders and their families. The first year featured 68 artists and has since grown to more than 500. The artists represent more than 50 Native American nations, as well as Indigenous groups in New Zealand, Tahiti, Pacific Islands, Arctic, Canada, Mexico, and Central and South America.
In addition to the art booths, this year will feature a casting call for an upcoming documentary about Free Indian Market. The film is being made by director Mark Gordon and will be narrated by Ali McGraw. Other key components to this year’s show are musical acts such as Ed Kabotie (Hopi) and the Yoties, Indigie-Femme and other surprise guests.
Shonto Begay (Navajo), Where Art Thou, acrylic on canvas, 48 x 60". Photo by Tom Alexander.
Gregory and Angie Schaaf are producers of the show. “This is the only way we could guarantee all the artists receive free booth spaces. We pay the costs of the show thanks to the annual Free Indian Market Benefit Art Auction,” the Schaafs say. “Original artwork is donated by Santa Fe art galleries, Native art collectors and Native American artists.
Although artists are not required to contribute, most give generously to help cover the direct costs of the show.”
The show takes place August 19 and 20, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.
August 19-20, 2023, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Free Indian Market
Federal Park, 106 S. Federal Place, Santa Fe, NM 87501
www.freeindianmarket.org
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