Pueblo Dancers

There are nineteen Native American Pueblos in New Mexico, and the ones between Santa Fe and the Colorado Border used to put on a show each July, hosted by the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo. Called the Eight Northern Indian Pueblos Arts and Crafts Show, hundreds of artists brought their best work to be judged and sold there, exhibiting around a circular dance area. These pictures are from the 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2010 dances (the 2009 event was cancelled).

The dance groups were mostly local. The eight northern pueblos are: Tesuque, Pojoaque, Nambé, San Ildefonso, Santa Clara, Ohkay Owingeh, Picuris and Taos. Dances on pueblo feast days are often open to the public, but photography is usually not allowed. This event was an exception, and I am thankful for the privilege of recording these colorful dancers.