John Torres-Nez, a member of the Navajo Nation, has been named chief operating officer of the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts, the group behind the annual Santa Fe Indian Market.

Torres-Nez, an artist and archaeologist, has worked at SWAIA for five years. He previously served as deputy executive director.

“I am really glad the board made this choice,” Torres-Nez told The Santa Fe New Mexican. “The artist response has been great, and that’s the most important thing: keeping our constituents happy.”

Following this year's market, SWAIA ended its relationship with former executive director Bruce Bernstein and said it would review how the organization operates.

Get the Story:
SWAIA appoints new chief operating officer (The Santa Fe New Mexican 10/9)
SW Group for Indian Arts Gains New Leadership (The Albuquerque Journal 10/9)

Related Stories:
Southwestern Association of Indian Arts to find new director (08/21)