2008 Prescott Indian Art Market to feature contemporary, traditional Native arts, crafts

<i>Photo by Tom Houtz</i><br>
Hopi coiled baskets, demonstrated by Joyce Saufkie of Second Mesa.

<i>Photo by Tom Houtz</i><br> Hopi coiled baskets, demonstrated by Joyce Saufkie of Second Mesa.

PRESCOTT, Ariz. - The 11th Annual Prescott Indian Art Market (PIAM) will be held on the tree-shaded grounds of the Sharlot Hall Museum July 12-13. The Museum's flower-lined walkways and commemorative rose garden provide an inviting backdrop for the impressive display of Indian art.

The market features both traditional and contemporary works of art, including distinctive jewelry, exquisite ceramics, hand-woven baskets and blankets. PIAM has grown in reputation and quality into one of the premier Indian Art Markets offered in the Southwest. An all-Indian artist jury chooses participants on the basis of quality in both traditional and contemporary styles.

The 2008 PIAM Featured Artist is Keith W. Smith, a Navajo from Tuba City, AZ. Keith holds a Fine Arts Degree in painting from Northern Arizona University. He works in watercolors, acrylics and oils. His various artistic initiatives include painter, publication illustrator, and poster artist. Keith's painting of a Yei-bi-chai singer was created especially for this year's 11th Annual Prescott Indian Art Market.

Visit with the artists in their booths and learn of the techniques and processes involved in creating their work. Stroll among demonstrators of American Indian weaving, Katsina carving and silversmithing. Observe the making of pottery, stone fetishes, baskets, and moccasins. New this year is the Children's Art Experience, which offers participants a workshop with leading American Indian artists (space limited; sign-up required). Entertainment is provided throughout the weekend in the outdoor amphitheater by Native American dancers, singers, and musicians. A popular highlight is the mouthwatering Navajo fry bread.

Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on July 12 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on July 13. Admission to the market is $5 per person; children free; and admittance free with new museum memberships. The Sharlot Hall Museum is located in the heart of downtown Prescott, two blocks west of the Courthouse Plaza at 415 W. Gurley Street. For information call (928) 445-3122 or visit the Museum's Web site at www.sharlot.org.

Donate to nhonews.com Report a Typo Contact
Most Read