SWAIA Gala to Highlight Indigenous Fashion and Culinary Artistry

The evening serves as a centerpiece for SWAIA’s mission to elevate Native creators, featuring a performance by viral sensation and powwow artist Baby Opie alongside surprise musical guests. The live auction portion highlights rare cultural artifacts and luxury items, including a beaded mini-Birkin by Adrian Stevens and Sean Snyder, alongside a collaborative culinary experience with chef and ceramicist Johnny Ortiz-Concha. More than 50 additional pieces will be available through a concurrent silent auction.

Following the gala, the focus shifts to the Santa Fe Convention Center Ballroom on August 16 for the SWAIA Native Fashion Show. This presentation spotlights six emerging and established designers, including Himikalas Pamela Baker, Jimmy Dean Horn, and Stephen Paul Judd. Executive Director Jamie Schulze credited the support of the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation and the dedicated gala committee for the continued growth of these cultural celebrations.