Chugach Sugpiaq jeweler Denise Wallace says she tells stories through her pieces. This year, she’s presenting an elaborate belt she made with her family, featuring ornate, detailed figures, each holding significant meaning, along with intricate designs crafted from ivory, silver, and gold. Wallace has long been a fixture at the Santa Fe Indian Market, now in its 104th year, as nearly a thousand talented Native artists set up to showcase their work. Also among the longtime artists is professional painter Merlin Little Thunder, known for detailed portraits and landscapes that often depict traditional Cheyenne life. For our series of arts interviews, we’ll speak with these artists along with last year’s Best of Show winner Regina Free and event organizers.

We’ll also get an update on the Artist Act that was just signed into federal law. The act prevents states from banning Alaska Native crafts made from materials like walrus ivory and baleen.

GUESTS

Leslie Wheelock (Oneida), board chair of the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts

Denise Wallace (Chugach Sugpiaq), artist, jeweler, and storyteller

Merlin Little Thunder (Southern Cheyenne), artist

Regina Free (Chickasaw), interdisciplinary artist and 2025 Santa Fe Indian Market Best of Show winner

Steve MacLean (Iñupiaq), managing director of the World Wildlife Fund U.S. Arctic Program