BAR HARBOR, Maine – The Abbe Museum will host their second Indian Market on May 17-19, 2019 in Bar Harbor, Maine. The event kicks off with a preview party and award ceremony on Friday evening. The Abbe Museum Indian Market, where native artists showcase their works, will take place throughout the weekend at the Bar Harbor Village Green, including a fashion show at 6 p.m. on Saturday at the Criterion Theatre. The Market also features an Indigenous Film Festival, which will run Friday – Monday, at Reel Pizza Cinerama.
Native baskets, jewelry, paintings and sculptures among other artworks from approximately 75 artists will be on display at the market. “We are delighted to have the Abbe Museum Indian Market return to Bar Harbor. The market offers a window into the Native American culture through masterful pieces of art. Bar Harbor greatly values the roots of the Wabanaki heritage in Bar Harbor and the wonderful artworks that are inspired by the unique landscape,” says Alf Anderson, director of membership & marketing at the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce.
The natural beauty of Mount Desert Island draws artists from any locations with its inspiring scenes and resources. The Wabanaki people have been among many other artists to flock to the coastal island, creating a tradition that spans thousands of years and have helped draw tourists to the region by selling their handmade goods. Art is not only a form of supplemental income for American Indians, but a way to connect back to their tribe’s past traditions that helps to educate and build cultural resilience.
After a successful event last year, the Abbe Museum looks forward to the 2019 Indian Market, where there will be a 40 percent increase in the number of participant artists, designers and performers. The designers for the AMIM Fashion show and featured films for the MIM Indigenous Film Festival have been chosen along with the many artists who were juried into this year’s event.
For more information about the Abbe Museum Indian Market and to purchase tickets, please visit www.abbemuseum.org/indianmarket.
