We heard some great and enriching talks from Edric Ong, Lee and Dhani Chinalai, Deborah Rael-Buckley, and Barbara Arlen, on their craft and on trends. Our group also toured a few other galleries and heard more artists and collectors talk. It was enjoyable and stimulating.
The Market itself was a dazzling exhibition of the best of folk art. The tents and grounds were beautifully decorated with garlands and lights, the booths were very well organized, and filled to the brim with colors, patterns, textures. It was such a delight to take it all in. I have already marked the artists I will visit again next year, and I look forward to getting to know more of the other artisans as well. The Market is remarkably easy to navigate and enjoy, given that there were 170 artists from 60 countries.
We are privileged to have many long-time friends of the gallery that come specially for Folk Art Market week. This group has been meeting every year for a number of years now, and each year new friends are added to the mix. It's a special group of art and jewelry enthusiasts that makes the Santa Fe Weaving Gallery so much fun - and meaningful. I hope you'll join us next year!
Elise