News from MIAC/Lab

Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Native Treasures Art Market with Museum of Indian Arts & Culture

APRIL 11, 2024

Santa Fe, NM – The Native Treasures Art Market is turning 20! For two decades, Native Treasures has served as a beacon for preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous artists. Native Treasures Art Market takes place over Memorial Day Weekend Saturday, May 25 through Sunday, May 26, 2024, in Santa Fe, New Mexico at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center. 

 Since its inception in 2004, Native Treasures has provided a unique space where artists can showcase their talents, share their stories, and connect with art enthusiasts and collectors. This milestone anniversary not only commemorates the market’s longevity but also underscores its enduring commitment to fostering appreciation and understanding of Indigenous art forms. 

 “I’ve been doing NT since the first show and have enjoyed how much it has grown,” said artist Nocona Burgess. “I feel like I’ve grown along with the show, and it’s helped my career by participating. I like the smaller show because you can get a lot of good feedback from collectors and potential collectors on new works.” 

The 20th anniversary of the Native Treasures Art market will present the highest quality artworks from a range of media—from painting and sculpture to jewelry and fashion, including Southwest favorites like pottery and textiles.  

 “The Museum of Indian Arts & Culture is thrilled for the 20th edition of the Native Treasures Art Market,” said Interim Director Danyelle Means. “MIAC is committed to highlighting Native voices and the impact of their powerful histories, art, and culture.” 

 In addition to the Native Treasures Art Market, the Native Treasures Night Market takes place on Friday, May 24 and is a unique opportunity to shop at the market early while enjoying delicious refreshments and live music. The MIAC Living Treasure Ceremony will take place during this event, honoring the 2023 MIAC Living Treasure, Anthony Lovato (Santo Domingo Pueblo), the 2024 MIAC Living Treasure Patricia Michaels (Taos Pueblo) and the 2024 Legacy Award recipient Martha Arquero (Cochiti Pueblo). 

 The market will continue from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 25 and Sunday, May 26. General admission is $5/adult, and those under 18 have free admission. The event will include MIAC educational programs for all ages and performances by the Cloud Eagle Dancers, Lighting Boy Foundation, and Tesuque Pueblo Dancers. 

 Tickets can be found at: https://miac.eventbrite.com/

 About the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture   

The Museum of Indian Arts & Culture is a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs, under the leadership of the Board of Regents for the Museum of New Mexico. Programs and exhibits are generously supported by the Museum of New Mexico Foundation and our donors. The mission of the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture/Laboratory of Anthropology is to serve as a center of stewardship, knowledge, and understanding of the artistic, cultural, and intellectual achievements of the diverse peoples of the Native Southwest.   

 The Museum of New Mexico Foundation supports the Museum of New Mexico system, focusing on fundraising for exhibitions and education programs, retail and licensing programs, financial management, advocacy and special initiatives. The Foundation was founded in 1962 by Thomas B. Catron III with the goal of providing private support for the four state museums in Santa Fe. The private, nonprofit Foundation has expanded to support eight historic sites statewide as well as the Office of Archaeological Studies and enjoys a robust private-public partnership with the State of New Mexico and the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. For more information, visit museumfoundation.org.