Hand-made and Hope in Santa Fe

From July 9-11, hundreds of folk artists from 52 countries will gather at the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market to showcase and sell their special crafts.  How precious is something that is learned from one’s ancestors and unique and beautiful in the modern world!

Another “must-see” is the Museum of International Folk Art, where exhibits in the Gallery of Conscience will explore contemporary issues about folk art production and consumption in the 21st century.  The inaugural exhibit opens July 4th:  Empowering Women: Artisan Cooperatives that Transform Communities. A better environment? A safe haven? A community bonded by art? A heritage preserved? An economic incentive?  What motivates these inspiring women?  “Now I can buy milk, pens and books and pay tuition for my children” Nepal “Give a woman money and watch the village grow” Swaziland “Art heals the helpless soul…Weaving is hope for tomorrow” Rwanda

Jessica Winter’s article in “O – The Oprah Magazine” this month captures the flavor of what is to come at the Art Market. We also look forward to Hand/Eye magazine’s reports from on-site.