47th Annual Native American Art Market To Hit Holidays in Mid-December

Reporter: Tyler Mitchell

Editor: Rei Tedoco

PHOENIX– The S’edav Va’aki Native Museum is gearing up for their 47th annual art market on December 14th to the 15th . 

The art market is a staple in the valley and has been a place where people of different ages can come and showcase their own and personalized variations of native art forms and pieces for years now. 

Katie Shields, event coordinator and chair for the market, emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive space where Native artists can thrive. 

“The Native Art Market is designed to elevate Indigenous voices and their unique art forms.”Shields said. 

The market not only provides a venue for artists to sell their work but also fosters connections between the artists and the broader community. Shields highlighted that attendees can expect everything from traditional crafts to modern interpretations of Indigenous art.

Shields shed light on the fact that not only does the market have multiple food vendors and options for the patrons attending, but she understands that the vendors and performers come very early to set up so they do provide a huge range of food options for them, as well as assistance to help them set up their stations and anything else they need. They really do want to make sure that everyone involved is being taken care of and accommodated. 

Reflecting on her personal connection to the market, Shields recalled attending similar events as a child. 

“I grew up coming to these markets with my family. It was a way for us to connect with the culture, and I want others to experience those same feelings now," Shields said. 

Even though Shields herself does not identify as a Native person, she still cares about and appreciates the essence of the native culture. She even shared that her favorite part about the museum is how unique and interactive it is. "Of course, you can come and watch and appreciate the art, but you can also create the art. You can even get the chance to learn instruments and different dances from the performers."

She spoke briefly about how all of the performers are selected, their goal is to always ensure the most authentic and professional performances for the people in attendance. 

Tony Duncan, a very popular hoop dancer and musician, has been a prominent participant and performer at the Native Art Market for over a decade. For Duncan, performing is not just about entertainment but it’s a way to educate the public about Native history and traditions. 

“My dances tell stories,” Duncan said. “Even my clothing has meaning. The colors and symbols represent protection, fire, and the eagle.” 

Through music, dance, and storytelling, Duncan wants to bridge cultural divides. And he aims to let people out there know that the native culture is very much still a thing, and Native/Indigenous people are still out there.

“It’s important for people to see that our culture is alive and thriving,” he said. 

Duncan expressed his tremendous gratitude and appreciation to be able to share his culture with others but to also do it with his family. Duncan’s wife and children are also dancers and musicians just like he is. He took pride in teaching his ways to them just as his father did for him. 

Gabriel Ayala, a multidimensional artist and classical guitarist, brings both visual art and music to the market. 

Ayala, who has been involved in the market for over 15 years, mentions that he wants to participate in the event to showcase and emphasize the diversity of Native artistry. He explained that there are so many different layers to native art and culture that he really wants to debunk the stereotypes of what native art is. 

For Ayala, the market is an opportunity to challenge misconceptions about Indigenous people. 

“We are resilient,” he said. “Our culture, languages, and traditions have survived for over 500 years. These markets showcase that resilience. Too often, Native art is imitated and sold by non-Native people. But events like this encourage people to buy directly from Indigenous artists,” Ayala said. 

As the Native Art Market approaches, the message from its participants is clear, this is a celebration of heritage, resilience, and creativity.  Shields also hopes that the visitors leave with more than just a piece of art. 

“We want people to feel a connection to the culture and the artists, it’s about building bridges and fostering appreciation.” Shields said.