Indian artists seek more control over popular annual market

Thursday, April 17, 2014  

Indian artists are standing behind an executive who left the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts amid financial concerns.

The non-profit SWAIA puts on the popular Santa Fe Indian Market. The event pumps $100 million into the local economy but the organization itself faces periodic financial troubles.

The issue came to a head when John Torres-Nez, a member of the Navajo Nation, resigned abruptly as chief operating officer on March. He left after SWAIA cut its work-week to four days and reduced employee pay and benefits.

Indian artists say SWAIA's board ignored concerns raised by Torres-Nez. They are also calling for the creation of an entirely new Indian art market.

'SIGN THIS PETITION declaring your support toward A NEW MARKET/ OUR MARKET led by John Torres Nez," a petition on change.org reads.

Get the Story:
Artists want new Indian Market, ex-COO back (The Albuquerque Journal 4/17)

Indian arts organization surprised by departure of top executive (04/08)
Navajo man resigns from top position at Indian arts organization (4/1)
John Torres-Nez, Navajo artist, takes lead for Indian art group (10/9)