Indigenous art market and festival returns to Salt Lake City with artists from across the country

The Natural History Museum of Utah will host its annual Indigenous Art Market & Festival on October 11 and 12, bringing 50 acclaimed Native American artists representing more than a dozen tribes to Salt Lake City for a weekend celebrating art, culture, and community.

The two-day event offers visitors a rare chance to meet artists in person, hear the stories behind their work, and purchase pieces directly from creators, with all proceeds going to the artists. Organizers say the festival is designed not only as a marketplace but also as an immersive cultural experience highlighting Indigenous traditions and contemporary expression.

The application for artists to exhibit at the market is now open. There is a $25 application fee.

Artists will present a wide range of works, including jewelry, pottery, sculptures, carvings, kachinas, paintings, textiles, beadwork, and sand paintings, with options at various price points. Live demonstrations—such as flintknapping and quillwork—will give attendees insight into traditional techniques passed down through generations.

“I had a desire to meet and converse with the end user of my beadwork,” said Peggy Fontenot, a beadwork and photography artist of Patawomeck and Potawatomi descent who has participated in the museum’s market. She noted that the setting fosters meaningful connections between artists and collectors while offering an accessible and welcoming environment.

Beyond the marketplace, the festival will feature dance performances, powwow-style presentations, and film screenings highlighting Indigenous storytelling, including selections associated with the Sundance Film Festival. Visitors can also engage with designers connected to Utah Indigenous Fashion Week through a pop-up exhibition celebrating Native fashion and creativity.

Jason Cryan, the Sarah B. George Executive Director of the museum, described the event as a cornerstone experience for visitors. He emphasized that the festival provides both a unique shopping opportunity and a deeper understanding of Indigenous cultures in Utah and beyond.

Since its launch in 2013, the Indigenous Art Market & Festival has grown into a major annual tradition, drawing artists and visitors from across the United States. Organizers say its continued success reflects a growing appreciation for Indigenous art and the importance of supporting artists directly.

The market will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days, with museum members granted early access starting at 9 a.m. Admission to the museum is required to attend.