Akwesasne artists participating in the 2014 Ohi: yo’ Art Market, (L to R) Marjorie Skidders, Bruce Boots, Victoria Ransom, Kaylan Adams, Natasha Thompson, and Keira Pyke.
The inaugural Ohi: yo’ Art Market kicked off with celebrated success on May 11, 2024. Native artists from across Turtle Island gathered to share in a showcase of collective creativity.
The art competition that was held on Friday, May 10 showed winning works, with prize money totaling over $30,000.00. The art market was held the following day inside the event center at the beautiful Seneca Allegany Resort and Casino.
Outstanding paintings, expressive photographs, intricate beadwork, time honored Haudenosaunee basketry was on display and for sale. A steady stream of visitors attended the well planned and organized artist’s event of the year.
Bruce Boots’ painting “The Little People” won second place in the 2D category.
Hayden Hayes, Director of Onöhsagwë: de’ Cultural Center, stated, “We were overwhelmed by the amount of positive feedback that we’ve received so far. However, now that the event has been established, we will continue to work to enhance the programs, grow the audiences, and grow the market into what we envision as the major Native art market in the Northeast. A big Nya:weh to all the artists that came and shared their amazing works. Everyone that came, whether artist, shopper or families in the demonstration areas, all played a critical part in making this event a success. And a special thank you goes to the Seneca Nation of Indians Council, Treasurer, and President for supporting this vision. Be on the lookout this summer for the official announcement of the 2025 Ohi: yo’ Art Market.”
