Butterflybiz: IFAM(E)

IFAM(E)

INDIGENOUS FINE ART MARKET EAST

May 20 - 22

AT MASHANTUCKET PEQUOT MUSEUM AND RESEARCH CENTER

As an artist, it is an honor to be able to open up the Nation's largest Indigenous Fine Art Market. Friday night is the kick off for the Indigenous Fine Arts Market IFAM(E) here in the dawnlands of turtle island. I was asked to open the event up with a traditional eastern style dance to represent my people here in the east. As indigenous people, our artwork is crafted into everything we physically make. From the tools, to vessel of transportation, to our homes, to the clothes we wear, it is an extension of identity. It's inspiring to be able to see the work put into each piece. I am also excited to see my relatives, teachers, and close friends from the Northeast Indigenous Arts Alliance representing the identity of our eastern shores.

One thing that is important to highlight is the people who are tremendously working behind the scenes for this event. From the tribal members, to the museum staff, to the IFAM(E) staff, to the artists. It's amazing how hard everyone is working together to bring such medicine to the communities.

IFAM(E) is expected to be the largest 3-day juried Native American art show and celebration on the east coast host by the Mashantucket Pequot Museum in partnership with IFAM(E) and the Northeast Indigenous Arts Alliance taking place May 20-22.

90 artist representing 50 nations, 40% of the artist are from the Northeastern territory will show and sell contemporary and traditional fine art in the museum's Gathering Space. The unique aspect of IFAM(E) in this inclusion of not only visual but performing and culinary indigenous artists to include hip hop and reggae bands, singer-songwriters, traditional music and dance, film, fashion, installation art, mural painting, youth art, and traditional and contemporary foods.