Morrison, CO - The popularity of Native American artwork is, ironically, a primary threat to its existence. Fascination with Native culture and demand for its artifacts has led to the mass production of imitations. Because they are typically lower in price and more easily accessed than authentic Native American art, the demand for genuine pieces-and the artists who create them- has declined significantly.Recognizing the dilemma, the Tesoro Foundation (with assistance from The Council for Indigenous Arts and Culture or CIAC) established the Indian Market & Powwow to showcase authentic Native American art and to educate the public about its cultural significance, value, and the traditional methods used in its creation. At the Indian Market & Powwow, which will celebrate its eighth year on May 17 th and 18 th, 2008,guests experience the work of more than 50 of the nation's most revered Native American artists and take in a competition powwow.
Artists who participate in the Indian Market are screened and invited by the Tesoro Foundation. To be eligible for participation, artists are asked to provide verification of Native American tribal affiliation and proof that their work is personally hand-created. Many Indian Market artists have participated in nationally recognized art events (such as the SWAIA Indian Market, The Eiteljorg Museum Indian Market and The Santa Fe Indian Market) and their art has been featured at respected institutions that include The Heard Museum, The Eiteljorg Museum and The Smithsonian Institute.

The day before the Indian Market opens to the public, artists may submit their work for judging in the categories of Easel Art, Jewelry, Pottery, Sculpture, and Traditional Arts. Artists' pieces are scored based on the criteria of technical skill and impact. Technical skill reflects the degree of difficulty, use of materials, and attention to detail in an artist's piece; impact considers design, originality, creativity, use of color and the cultural representation of a piece. The Tesoro Foundation requires a high level of expertise on Native art for judging the juried art show.
This year, the new Denver Museum of Nature and Science Curator of Anthropology, Chip Colwell-Chanthaphonh, and the Native American Art Curator for the Denver Art Museum, Nancy Blomberg, have agreed to participate in judging this year's market.

Join the festivities and experience the award-winning art first-hand at this year's Indian Market & Powwow. The event is open to the public and will feature a competition powwow honoring Native Americans who have contributed to the US armed forces and a variety of different kinds of dance and song. Details below.

Event: The 8 th Annual Indian Market & Powwow
Date: Saturday, May 17 th & Sunday, May 18 th, 2008
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. both days
Place: The Fort: 19192 Hwy 8, Morrison, CO 80465
Tickets: $6/Adults, $3/Seniors & Students, Free/Children under 12
Tickets are available at the door.