Indigenous Fine Arts Market kicks off big weekend in New Mexico


Opening day crowds at the new Indigenous Fine Art Market in Santa Fe, New Mexico. August 21, 2014. Photo © Indianz.Com

More than 1,400 Native artists are showcasing their talents at two big markets this weekend as part of an annual ritual that draws more than 100,000 people to Santa Fe, New Mexico.


Kevin Red Star (Crow), seated, and George Alexander (Muscogee Creek) participate in "Live Paint" event during IFAM's opening day. Music was provided by DJ Brian Frejo. Photo © Indianz.Com

The new kid on the block is the Indigenous Fine Art Market. Although just in its first year, organizers have managed to draw more than 400 artists to the Santa Fe Railyard for a unique mix of art, fashion, music, skateboarding and more.

IFAM kicked off Thursday -- two days earlier than the old standby: the Santa Fe Indian Market. Now in its 93rd year, the event features more than 1,100 artists who will be showing their goods on the downtown Plaza.

The two event locations are separated by just one mile so patrons won't have to travel far to check out both. Healthy-sized crowds turned out for IFAM's debut yesterday but the true test of the potential competition won't come until Saturday, when Indian Market opens.

IFAM will wrap up festivities on Saturday. Indian Market concludes Sunday afternoon.

Get the Story:
Two markets, twice the art (The Albuquerque Journal 8/22)
Native art and culture goes avant-garde at new market (The Santa Fe New Mexican 8/22)

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