On August 18th and 19th of 2012 SWAIA (Southwestern Association for Indian Arts) celebrated the 91st annual Indian Market on the Plaza in Santa Fe. This year I only went down to the Plaza on Sunday as I wanted to watch the clothing contest. This is my favorite event of Indian Market. I am always amazed at the amount of work and time that goes into creating this beautiful clothing. Jeri Ah-Be-Hill served a the master of ceremonies. Two little girls tied for best in show women, Lilliian Jones and Dyani Pino and a little boy, Jai P'Ho Harvier received best in show for the men. The tie for the little girls was a first. Another first was awarding best in show for the contemporary clothing. This award was given to Navajo designer JT Willie.
After the clothing contest concluded there was continuous Native American dancing on the Plaza stage. This was just wonderful as one could seeing dancing from various native groups. I hope this type of programming is brought back in 2013.
In 2011 Mount Saint Elias dance troupe from Yakutat, Alaska performed during the market. This was the first time this dance troupe performed at Indian Market. In 2012 the Git Hoan dance troupe from Seattle, Washington performed at Indian Market. Their dances come from Alaska as well. This was their second appearance at Indian Market.
As I didn't go down to the Plaza on Saturday I'm including the photos I took of the artwork from 2011. For me, Indian Market is a visual treat to witness first quality artwork from Native Americans all around the country. It is Santa Fe's most popular and largest market!