Event | Partners in Design: Native Chic Trunk Shows

(Patricia Michaels)

Perhaps one of the best things about being in Santa Fe, New Mexico, has to do with the fact that it is a mecca for cutting-edge Native American fashion.

The Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, at 704 Camino Lejo in Santa Fe, is currently hosting trunk shows to feature Native designers and jewelers. The first two events, which were held in September and October, spotlighted Penny Singer, Jennifer Curtis, Pilar Agoyo, and Cody Sanderson.

Trunk shows are important ways for fashion designers and jewelers to get the word out about their art, to connect with collectors, and to commission new work. Trunk shows involve less time, energy, and funding than the standard runway fashion show (in which dozens of volunteers, hours of preparation, and lots of $$ are required), and provide significant sources of income for designers. Because of their intimate nature, they are also great opportunities to meet and talk with the artists.

The final three events, to be held in December, January, and February, promise to be exciting shows, and IF you find yourself in New Mexico, you should definitely check them out:

December 20, 2009
Partners in Design: Native Chic
Third in a series of five trunk shows, featuring Native American designers and jewelers. Works by Patricia Michaels and Connie, David, and Wayne Nez Gaussoin to be featured.

January 31, 2010
Partners in Design: Native Chic
Fourth in a series of five trunk shows, featuring Native American designers and jewelers. Works by Teri Greeves and Keri Ataumbi to be featured.

February 28, 2010
Partners in Design: Native Chic
Fifth in a series of five trunk shows, featuring Native American designers and jewelers. Fashion week blowout with works by select artists.

All trunk shows will be held at the Mary Cabot Wheelwright Library from 3-5 p.m. with free admission. For additional information, contact Robb Lucas at 505-982-4636 x110 or send an email to casetradingpost@wheelwright.org.