The morning birds sang as guests gathered at the S’edav Va’aki Museum, formerly known as Pueblo Grande Museum, for the 48th annual Indian Market on Dec. 13 and 14. 

Although the Phoenix museum recently changed its name, excitement for the annual market has stayed the same. Museum representative Rosetta Walker said, “[The market] has been pretty steady because people know [that] Pueblo Grande, now S’edav Va’aki Museum, has been doing an Indian Market for the past 48 years. This is our third year with the new name.” 

She said that they are always looking for people to perform at the event. “I help get performers by going to other markets throughout the Valley and approaching them and seeing them, and we do try to stick with the southern tribes’ performers because we are on the lands of the Hohokam,” said Walker. The performers at this year’s market included hoop dancer Tony Duncan, Gertie and the T.O. Boyz, O’odham dance group Chi’Chino Spirit, musician Gabriel Ayala and Jazzmenco. There were also tribal royalty presentations.

This year’s featured market artist was August Wood, a Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community member. Wood was selected by the museum’s association. “We are so excited August was available and said yes to our ask. August has been at the museum for a number of years, and his mentor was the late Ron Carlos, from whom he learned how to do the paddle board pottery method. He’s demonstrating pottery today and also has the baskets,” said Walker.

Wood shared some words about his experience as the market began on the first day. “A little bit of relief, excited, overwhelmed and tired, you know. It’s been a long process going through everything that has happened so far. But to be here and to show off what I’ve been making has been pretty exciting and well received this morning so far. We’ll see how today goes and tomorrow goes.” 

Miss Indian Arizona Sialik King attended the market, sharing a welcome greeting and a traditional O’odham song. The event also included a special market for young artists.