The 102nd Santa Fe Indian Art Market will be a dazzling celebration in its own right, but this year’s event will shine even brighter thanks to a cohort of passionate artists from Northern Canada. An exciting collaboration between the Yukon First Nations Culture and Tourism Association (YFNCT), the Northwest Territories (NWT) Arts Program, and the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA), brings ten extraordinary Northern Canadian Indigenous artists to show, sell, and experience the 2024 market.
Highlighting Indigenous Canadians
The participation of these artists in SFIM is more than just an exhibition: it’s a celebration of Northern Canadian Indigenous culture. The line-up includes the mesmerizing talents of Vashti Etzel, Randi Nelson, Montana & Delaney Prysnuk, Janelle Hager, and Amy Tessaro from the Yukon, along with John Sabourin, Darrell Chocolate, Antoine Mountain, Sheena Yakeleya, and Shawna McLeod from the Northwest Territories.
Dr. Brendan Hanley, Member of Parliament for the Yukon, expresses his excitement, “For these Yukon artists, the Santa Fe Indian Market is an exciting opportunity to showcase the rich Indigenous cultures and talents of the Yukon on a broader North American stage. Yukon First Nation representation in the arts, culture, and tourism sector matters – and we’ll continue to back these artists, makers, and entrepreneurs to grow their industry.”
This event not only supports the careers of these gifted individuals but also raises awareness of the exceptional quality of Indigenous art and fine crafts from northern Canada. It’s a significant step in fostering growth and opportunity within the arts and culture industries in the North. This stands as a groundbreaking event for Santa Fe’s well-established Indian Market.
Artist Spotlights in the 2024 Santa Fe Indian Market
Storyteller and Beader Antoine Mountain
Antoine Mountain, is a Dene artist from the picturesque Fort Good Hope in Canada’s Northwest Territories. Antoine Mountain’s artistic journey began in a family rich with creativity. He grew up surrounded by the intricate beauty of sculpting, beading, sewing, and quillwork. Antoine’s striking works are a harmonious union of color and light, drawing viewers into the breath-taking landscapes and expressive portraits. His mesmerizing murals, sprinkled throughout the territory, breathe life into the spirit and stories of his people, ensuring their legacy endures for future generations. Beyond the canvas, Antoine is a passionate storyteller. He is a contributor to multiple magazines and newspapers, and is currently penning his memoir, The Life and Times of a Mountain Dene Artist.
Designer and Artist Vashti Etzel
Vashti Etzel, a powerhouse of artistic spirit, is a Dene artist from Ross River, Yukon. She has roots tracing back to Shutuh Dene, Kaska Dene, Chipewyan-Cree, Scottish, and German ancestry. Her art is a true fusion of cultures including beaded earrings, porcupine quill-adorned bags, and gemstone-embellished moccasins. She’s inspired by her late grandmother and her traditions. Etzel’s creations earned her 2017 Adäka Cultural Festival Most Promising Emerging Artist award. Her brand, Golden Eye Designs, is a beautiful tapestry of color, technique, and tradition.
Multydisciplinary Creative John Sabourin
John Sabourin is an acclaimed multi-disciplinary artist from Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories. John’s work is deeply inspired by the legends, stories, and animals of the Northwest Territories. He captures the spirit of the North with flowing, meandering lines that echo the Aurora Borealis. John’s creations are a testament to his connection with the Northern landscape. His stunning pieces can be found at The Inuit Gallery of Vancouver, The Guild Shop in Toronto, Bear Claw Gallery in Edmonton, and Arctic Artistry Gallery in New York City.
Stained Glass Artisan Amy Tessaro
Meet Amy Tessaro, the vibrant soul behind Tessaro Stained Glass. Hailing from Haines Junction, Yukon, Amy is a talented Tahltan artist who masterfully blends Northwest Coast formline with stained glass. Raised amidst the beauty of Haida Gwaii (a province of British Columbia), her art reflects a deep union to nature. Guided by her father, Bruce Tessaro, Amy honed her craft through years of practice. Her work is a harmonious dance between her vision and her extensive glass collection. With accolades like the Advanced Artist Award and exhibitions at the Vancouver Olympics, Amy’s colorful creations have earned a place in distinguished private collections across Canada and the United States.
Story by Natassja Santistevan / Photography courtesy of NWT Arts and YFNCT
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