SWAIA Traditional Arts Ambassador Program
SWAIA Establishes New Program to Protect and Preserve Traditional Native Art Forms
SWAIA is proud to announce the creation of the Traditional Arts Ambassador Program, a newly established educational program that will serve as a platform to ensure the sustainability and future of traditional Native Arts in New Mexico.
Three individuals (two jewelers and one Pueblo potter) will be selected as 2012 "SWAIA Ambassadors." The awards will be administered under the SWAIA Fellowship Program.
Since 1980, the Fellowship program has supported emerging and established artists by providing monetary awards, a booth on the Plaza during the Santa Fe Indian Market and other resources. Not unlike fellowship recipients, the Ambassadors will participate in various SWAIA educational programs throughout the year and are provided an artist booth during the 2012 Santa Fe Indian Market.
The Ambassador Program creates advocacy and accessibility of the artist's voice. The recipients will be a spokespeople for Native arts, traditional arts and the deep cultural heritage of New Mexico. Ambassadors will speak to audiences regarding the importance and continuity of Native Arts. They will also speak to other artists about the values and principles of being an Indian Market artist and maintaining high standards for quality and authenticity.