Kananesgi Art Market and Fashion Show
Kananesgi Art Market and Fashion explains that “Kananesgi” is the Cherokee word for spider. “The spider was chosen because in Cherokee culture the spider represents creativity and being good with your hands,” say market representatives. “What’s special about the [event] is that it 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.” Pictured here, presented by Wolf Clan by Sharon Bradley, we see a poly chiffon over viscose and poly satin dress, with faux fur shrug and real fur cuffs. “I tried to imitate the sleekness and colors of the wolf,” the artist explains.

 

Smith & Smith
Offered by the Emmy-winning costume designer Cathy A. Smith, who partners with artisan jeweler, Jennifer Jesse Smith, is this limited-edition Couture Blanket Cape Coat, swing-styled to fit all figures. This gorgeous piece is silk-lined with a hood, and has leather and elk antler detailing, “a contemporary version of our grandmother’s wearing blankets,” says the artists. Find additional works and information on these two talented partners at Nambe Trading Post in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

 

Not Your Grandmother’s Jewelry
For the various turquoise and silver jewelry pieces pictured here, artist Michael Chad Gleason shares some insights. “My inspiration comes from seeing my father carve when I was younger and then growing up to learn the beautiful skill of silversmithing and carving. Seeing my grandmother in awe of my talent drove me to blend the two skills I have and create these beautiful pieces of artwork. I love my culture and respect the turquoise and silver. I hope that my art will make people happy when they wear it. I do most of my own lapidary work and I am self-taught. I’m just a young artist doing what I believe is best for my family, my culture, my heritage and myself.”

 

Jesse Robbins Jewelry
This pueblo-inspired necklace, made by renowned jewelry designer Jesse Robbins, features a coin silver ingot Naja set with Harcross turquoise. The necklace is strung with Mediterranean coral beads, vintage heishi turquoise beads and six-coin silver ingot crosses. Like the first smiths and plateros of the Southwest, Robbins creates one-of-a-kind tufa-cast ingot, hand-wrought, coin silver jewelry. Incredibly labor intensive, this method produces jewelry that is classic, timeless and truly one of kind. Jesse creates his work to be worn and experienced. “Like an old friend, a good bracelet or ring tells its own stories and reminds us of the incredible journeys we all have,” the artist shares.