Come say tansi and find locally made, handcrafted Indigenous artworks. This is the third annual installment of the Indigenous Artist Market’s signature holiday event—except this year it’s offered online. Until December 23, the I.A.M Online Holiday Market event offers the chance to support new and returning artists and vendors from the comfort of home. Each artist has their own album in the Facebook group, with photos and prices for each available item!
Who are the I.A.M Collective?
The I.A.M (Indigenous Artist Market) Collective showcase local handmade Indigenous artworks from a collection of skilled Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs brought together by a shared mission to empower upcoming and established makers in the community. You may have seen their kiosk at the Edmonton Downtown Farmers’ Market, where they feature new vendors and artists every weekend.
Who are the vendors?
Your friends and neighbours! Each of the market’s vendors are Alberta-based Indigenous artists dedicated to creating artwork that captures the creative spirit of their communities. The list of vendors includes Indigenous makers like botanical artisan Aki Bodycare From Earth, Inuk artist founded Silarqi Beads, and resin artist TLC Creations. There’s no limit to the variety and quality of Indigenous artwork to discover, so why not start exploring?
What products can I find?
Everything from intricate beadwork to artisan-crafted body products! For whatever may be on your holiday wishlist, there’s something special to uncover. Here are just a few of the things you may find at both the in-person and online markets:
1) Picasso Miyuki Bead Earrings — Tracey Bradley
Created by local beadwork artist Tracey Bradley, these earrings made from leather, bead, and quill are perfect as a gift idea for that certain special someone.
2) Makeup Cases — Azure & Co
These makeup cases by Indigenous-owned company Azure & Co combine beauty and functionality to create a stylish way to bring some organization into your beauty routine.
3) Beaded Feather Earrings — Silarqi Beads
Owned by Inuk artist Vanessa Ruptash, these gorgeous beaded feather earrings feature the intricate beadwork found throughout her product range. Look no further this Christmas for a one-of-a-kind addition to yours or a loved one’s jewelry collection.
4) Acrylic Paintings — Esta Baker
Esta Baker is an emerging Indigenous artist and photographer from Yellowknife, NWT. Her art is acrylic abstract in rich tones, with birch and landscapes representing identity, culture, and the spiritual connection to this land.
5) Ribbon skirt and jacket sets — Deeanne Sutherland-Firstcharger
These ribbon skirt and jacket sets are handmade by artist Deeanne Sutherland-Firstcharger and available in sizes for children and adults. Ribbon skirts and insulated ribbon jackets can be purchased separately as well, and this artist even offers gift certificates.
For even more local gifts to fill your stockings, the WHERE Wish Book 2020 features a curated selection of over 75 Edmonton-based products to please even the pickiest of those on your Christmas list. Dive into the holiday season with recommendations for events, dining, seasonal fun, and more! Read the full online version here.
