Indian Market Weekend

What would a blog about Santa Fe be without a post on Indian Market weekend. Many locals have a love hate relationship with the eighty-eight year old Native Arts show. The reason being in a good year our population doubles for a week. The wide open spaces get a bit snug. We may actually have some traffic, and maybe have to wait for a table at our favorite restaurant. For me this is a small price to pay to have the largest gathering of indigenous peoples art right in my backyard.

For me, Market kicked off Thursday night on the Plaza. Every gallery and shop was hosting an artist reception and party. On the Santa Fe Bandstand, Micky Free and American Horse was rockin the house.

Friday night we walked out my door and headed over to Canyon Road. With this being the biggest art weekend of the year in Santa Fe, every gallery had openings, and special happenings. One of my favorites was the Chiaroscuro Gallery complex. We happened to be there just as a blessing was being offered by one of the native artists. Those present where touched, and reminded of the roots of the great work being presented.

Outside in the courtyard Yatika Fields, and Rose Simpson where painting to the delight of a very appreciative crowd.

My friend and continued our stroll to the top of Canyon Road, and miracle of miracles, got a street side table at El Farol. For non-locals, El Farol is the oldest restaurant and bar in Santa Fe. So much for waiting for a table at your favorite restaurant. El Farol is a Santa Fe institution, always great for music, people watching, and scrumptious tapas.

It was a magical Santa Fe night as we walked home in the moonlight.

The next morning I was up early, and happy to be among the throngs Saturday as the weather cooperated to make it a spectacular day. Because I was early the booths and tables where to crowded to get shots of  some of my favorite works.

I did get close enough to fall in love with this Tuscarora Beadwork from the Tuscarora Nation on the east coast. Very different from the traditional beadwork, something we don't have the opportunity to see in the southwest.