Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this event special?
Begun 62 years ago, the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market continues to promote and support American Indian artists from across the United States and Canada. As a juried show and the second largest art market of its kind in the United States, you will find the best of the best work including traditional art forms and cutting edge contemporary pieces in a broad range of media including painting, sculpture, weaving and textiles (clothing, rugs, quilts, etc.), pottery, basketry, jewelry, glass, wood carvings, 2-dimensional art and more.
How do I participate as an artist?
Artist applications and invitations for the 2020 Fair are closed. The highly competitive process for 2021 will open mid-July of 2020. Please visit https://www.heardguild.org/artists/ for more information. To participate, all first time applicants, including Youth Artists, must submit a copy of a Certificate of Indian Blood, tribal enrollment ID, an Artisan Letter or a copy of their Canadian Indian Status Card.
Can I meet and talk to the artists?
Our artists love sharing their work and will happily discuss their techniques and pieces with you, even if you choose not to buy. Part of the fun of this event is interacting with the artists, sharing ideas, and learning new things.
Can I take photographs?
Please ask artists for permission prior to photographing them and/or their work.
In addition to visiting artist booths, what else is happening at the Fair?
While the main focus is the art and artists, there is much to see and do at the Fair. To learn more about the art forms, a separate artist demonstration area invites you to view the creative process firsthand. Recognizing that performance is also an art form, we invite you to enjoy an ongoing schedule of cultural performances featuring American Indian dancers and musicians on two stages. Additionally, museum admission is included in the cost of your fair ticket. Wander through the galleries to enjoy our permanent collection and new Crosswalk and Grand Gallery special exhibits. Visit the Heard Museum Shop to meet featured artists and dealers. Browse Books & More and meet the authors of selected books at the book signings. A group of American Indian non-profit organizations are also on hand to share information about their services. Lastly, don’t forget to take advantage of a wide variety of food offerings in our museum café, food court, and other food treats throughout the Fair campus.
Do I have to pay for parking?
No. Refer to our parking map to locate free parking close to the museum campus.
Is the Heard Museum on the Light Rail line?
The Heard Museum Encanto/Central stop on the Valley Metro Light Rail line lets you off right at the museum’s entrance on Central Avenue.
Will my kids enjoy this event?
This is a family friendly event and children of all ages are welcome to attend. There is much to see and experience throughout the Fair for visitors of all ages. Children will especially enjoy Storytelling and Crafts with Young Warriors Storytelling & Crafts with Violet Duncan (Plains Cree/Taíno) at 10:30am, 12pm and 2pm in Steele Auditorium.
Can I bring my pet?
Due to safety and health regulations, only service animals are permitted on campus during this event.
Can I ship items?
A convenient UPS packing and shipping booth is available for your needs. It is location #11 on the Fair map.