The second annual Indigenous Art Fair is coming to the Bloomington Civic Plaza on Sunday, May 17.
The art fair is organized by the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department in conjunction with the Bloomington Public Schools American Indian Education Program. Last year’s inaugural fair drew more than 1,700 visitors.
“It’s an initiative to let Indigenous people use their voices and empower Indigenous people to tell their own stories through art,” Bloomington recreation supervisor Mark Morrison said.
This year’s fair features unique artwork and crafts from more than 40 local Native artists. They include, but are not limited to, painters, jewelers, ceramicists, bakers, and bookmakers. All works are handmade.
Participating artists work in traditional mediums like beadwork and leather work as well as contemporary ones like digital illustration and photography. Artists are coming from all over the region, representing almost every tribe or band in Minnesota and the Dakotas.
Hungry attendees can get fed by the art fair’s Indigenous food trucks, which include local favorites Trickster Tacos and OG Zaza.
Two stages will feature music and dance performances throughout the fair. The indoor Schneider Theatre inside the plaza will host Native flute and dance performances while an outdoor stage will feature several more contemporary Native acts.
Plus, the art fair will have several activities and games that allow attendees to engage with Native crafts and activities. Highlights include a nettle fiber crafts crash course and traditional lacrosse workshops.
A special exhibition featuring some of the fair’s artists will be on display at the adjacent Bloomington Center for the Arts. The exhibition will be on display for two weeks and features works by Marlena Myles, Kent Estey, Carrie Minkel-Johnson, and Ruby Leith-Minkel.
“The exciting piece is seeing the artists so happy to have this opportunity to do this, and then the people that came just loved it,” Morrison said. “[Seeing] all the different wonderful art styles that are showcased by these Indigenous artists is an absolutely great time.”
