For the third consecutive year, creative forces united at IM: EDGE Press and Influencer Preview, which was sponsored by JoAnn and Bob Balzer. The evening marked a successful kick-off to Native America’s largest and oldest art gathering. SWAIA’s 96th Indian Market is officially underway!
Long-time supporters of Indian art, sponsors, collectors, and members of the press were in attendance as models showcased the work of designer Orlando Dugi (Diné) to the DJ’s techno-based beats. A remarkably diverse selection of innovative artwork, including sculpture, photography, fabric arts, and paintings in various media, compose this year’s exhibit, which includes works by Frank Andrews III (Colville-Diné), Vanessa Bowen (Navajo); Shyanne Brant (St. Regis Mohawk), Joseph Eddy (Colorado River Indian Tribes), Andy Everson (K’omoks), Billy Hensley (Chickasaw), Damian Jim (Navajo), Paul C. Moore (Chickasaw), Bryan Parker (Muscogee-Mississippi Choctaw), Laureen Reed (Choctaw), and Holly Wilson (Delaware Nation-Cherokee).
A moving dance performance by Rulan Tangen (Métis) and Jock Soto (Navajo), accompanied by a hauntingly beautiful original violin score by Laura Ortman (White Mountain Apache), mesmerized the audience and brought the evening’s only break in conversation among guests.
Orlando Dugi talks fashion shop, explaining materials and techniques to awed admires of his new line of couture clothing.
Miss Indian World, Raven Swamp (Mohawk), was also among the crowd, a feast for the eyes in head-to-toe beaded buckskin.
Photos and text by RoseMary Diaz (Santa Clara Pueblo)