Native aesthetics: Next Gen Artisan Market in Santa Fe showcases 30 emerging Indigenous artists

Celebrate Native Heritage Day at the Indigenous Futures 4EVER Next Gen Artisan Market in Santa Fe.

The event, hosted by 4KINSHIP, will showcase 30 emerging Indigenous artists who will be selling their handmade art, jewelry, clothing and home goods, at the event which takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 29, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Santa Fe Railyard Plaza in Santa Fe.

Native aesthetics: Next Gen Artisan Market in Santa Fe showcases 30 emerging Indigenous artists

“This market is more than just a shopping experience, it’s a chance to support the next generation of Indigenous creators and invest in their stories and futures,” according to an event news release. “Whether you’re looking for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts or simply want to connect with the community, this event is a meaningful way to embrace and celebrate Indigenous artistry.”

Indigenous-owned catering company, 4 Your Plate Only, will be part of the event. Owners Shelby Billison (Diné/Navajo) and Jeremy Romancito (Zuni and Laguna Pueblo) blend traditional and modern techniques and flavors derived from their roots.

Peyton Alex, a Diné graphic artist and second generation silversmith from Gallup, reflects her love of skateboarding in her graphic art and utilizes traditional techniques in her silversmithing.

Big Bow Designs is the brainchild of artist Kisikahwskew “Kylei” Big Bow (Fine Bow), of the Chippewa Cree and Laguna Pueblo tribes of Montana and New Mexico. She works in beadwork, parfleche, painting and northern regional traditional tattoos to create her art pieces that reflect edgy, punk and gothic elements.

Vanessa Bowen (Diné/Navajo) uses their work to drive social change while amplifying Indigenous voices. Bowen’s pieces combine Indigenous wisdom with innovative design. They also are an avid athlete that inspires Native children to embrace cycling as part of the Get Native Kids on Bikes initiative.

Dawn Tesha Smith is a Navajo mixed-media artist from Low Mountain, Arizona, who specializes in painting and branches out into other mediums including woodworking. Her work is inspired by the colors of nature on the reservation, her family and cultural teachings.

More information on the artists participating in the market can be found at 4kinship.com/pages/nextgen-artisan-market.

A Railyard Skate Hangout will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 29, by the water tower at the Railyard. Valley Skates and Diné skater Shawnshine Harrison will be part of the event. Amy Denet Deal, founder of the Diné Skate Garden Project Hangout, will speak on work that the program does in the community to insure Native youth have access to the sport of skateboarding.

Deal also is the force behind 4KINSHIP, a sustainable artwear brand that is hosting the artisan market.

“With a deep respect for her Indigenous culture and heritage, 4KINSHIP seamlessly blends the realms of art, fashion and creativity in captivating ways,” according to a company statement. “Through their exceptional designs and innovative pursuits, the brand not only celebrates Indigenous creativity but also strives to empower the next generation.”

Its nonprofit, 4KINSHIP Indigenous Futures Fund, supports Indigenous artists on their creative journeys. The collaborative initiative between 4KINSHIP and the Inspiring Children Foundation, fosters equitable opportunities for Indigenous artists to thrive in their craft. Fundraising efforts help Indigenous creatives showcase their unique talents to the community, as well as provide professional support to cultivate the careers of each artist.