Intoxicating Santa Fe

I spent an intoxicating weekend hobnobbing with some of the finest artists in the world at the Folk Art Market in Santa Fe.  I was truly in awe and inspired by the talent and diversity in the art and artists chosen to be there from all over the world.

Ebony and Silver 

The artist Elhadji Koumama, Niger

Weavings from Laos

The Artist/Weaver-Taykeo Sayavon

Hand Painted Camel Bags by Fatim Diallo from Mali

Ousmane Macina , incredible Jeweler From Mali

I usually travel to these countries on my own. The planning, hunting, the cultural immersion is food for me. So it was with trepidation and hesitation that I set off to Santa Fe.  There were crowds of people who I realized would see these countries only this way and others who were clearly fellow intrepid travelers.

I met old friends that I shared chai with while in the far corners of India.  An amazing block printer from Gujarat whose scarves I brought home in suitcases for the loaded trunk.  An exceptional woman from New Delhi, who has organized and encouraged artists of all mediums throughout India, that she tirelessly promotes throughout the world.

The incredible women of Kamala that I met on my last journey to India

The infamous Master Block Printer, Adul Razak Mohmed Khatri, 9th generation block printer that Ryan and I shared lunch and Chai with in Western Gujarat near the Pakistan Border

I also met Judy who selflessly promotes and coordinates an NGO, Kala Rashka, in the state of Gujarat that works to preserve the traditional arts of this region of India. You may still find a few of their fabulous bolsters in my trunk!

I met many new and intriguing artists with whom I look forward to working with.  These new friends have helped me carve out the path for my next journey.  Stay tuned!

Unexpected Travel

Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.  said, "Unexpected travel suggestions are dancing lessons from God." I love this quote and think of it as I plan for my trip to the International Folk Art Market in Santa Fe, New Mexico this weekend. I am excited on so many levels.  I will be a volunteer and will working with an amazing textile designer from Mali, Aboudar Sidiki Fofana.

Photos from Santa Fe International Folk Market Website

I will be staying with an old friend, a painter, and I quote a review by the Santa Fe Reporter:" With an eye toward history, both in terms of technique and style, Pauline Ziegen creates layered modernist mythologies of the American West landscapes."  Her work is available through several galleries in Santa Fe. 

Photos from Pauline Ziegen

Lastly, I will be seeing several weavers and block printers that I met in Gujarat, India. They will be a part of a group of truly amazing artisans from around the globe gathering in this beautiful spot to celebrate their craft.  I am putting on my dancing shoes.