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- By Native News Online Staff
SWAIA’s premier annual fundraising event, the Gala Dinner & Auction, returns on Saturday, August 16, at the Santa Fe Convention Center—featuring an exciting evening of entertainment and celebration.
Evening Entertainment Highlights:
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Steven Paul Judd (Kiowa-Choctaw) – Master of Ceremonies
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Adrian Wall (Jemez Pueblo) – Live musical performance
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Larry Yazzie (Meskwaki) – Internationally acclaimed performing artist
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Patricia Michaels (Taos Pueblo) – Fashion show presentation
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Robert Mirabal (Taos Pueblo) – Musical performance
Emerald Tanner, of Gallup, New Mexico’s Tanner Trading, will serve as the evening’s auctioneer. The live auction begins at 8 p.m., offering guests an exclusive opportunity to bid on exceptional works by award-winning SWAIA artists, including Virgil Ortiz, Russell Sanchez, and Karen Clarkson. Featured auction items also include two limited-edition Indian Motorcycle jackets adorned with artist-designed patches and embellishments, as well as a striking sliced-diamond yellow ring by Twyla True.
For the first time in several years, SWAIA is supported by an eight-member Gala Committee composed of local community leaders.
“The Gala Committee has brought structure, creativity, and vision to the event—ensuring our 420 guests experience an extraordinary evening and helping make our largest fundraiser of the year a true success,” said SWAIA Executive Director Jamie Schulze.
The evening’s menu, curated by Walter Burke Catering, is inspired by traditional Native feast day cuisine, offering a culinary experience that celebrates Indigenous culture.
For more information or to support SWAIA by attending the 2025 Indian Market Gala & Live Auction, CLICK HERE.
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