Tribal Vending and Demonstrating

 

Discover the rich Native American culture at Grand Canyon National Park through our diverse tribal vending and demonstration programs. From traditional artisans showcasing their craftsmanship to contemporary artists drawing inspiration from the breathtaking landscape, these programs offer unique opportunities for cultural exchange and economic empowerment. Read more about these programs below!

 

Native American Artisans Vendor Market at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center

NPS Photo

Native American Artisans Vendor Market
Grand Canyon National Park offers a unique opportunity for Native American artisans to showcase and sell their handcrafted works through a vendor market program managed by Native Americans for Community Action (NACA). Since 1971, NACA has supported Native American communities around Flagstaff, Arizona, overseeing this program with a lottery system that ensures fairness in selecting participants. Successful applicants can sell their authentic, handcrafted creations at prime locations within the park, including the Tusayan Museum and the Visitor Center Plaza, on weekends and holidays.

For a daily fee of $75, vendors receive table space to display their wares, providing valuable economic opportunities for Native American artists. This program not only allows artists to share their cultural heritage but also enriches the visitor experience at Grand Canyon National Park. Aspiring vendors are encouraged to reach out to Pearl Tsosie at NACA for applications and further information:
Pearl Tsosie
[phone]
[e-mail]

 

Darrance Chimerica creating a Hopi Kachina doll.

NPS Photo

Cultural Demonstration Program

The Cultural Demonstration Program was inaugurated in 2014 as an initiative of the Grand Canyon Intertribal Working Group. The program began with four demonstrators and now boasts more than 200 demonstrators. The goal of the program is to provide a venue for members of the 11 Associated Tribes to share the culture and stories of their heritage.

Generally held at the Desert View Watchtower near the East Entrance to Grand Canyon, previous demonstrators have included potters, carvers, drum makers, silversmiths, dancers, weavers, storytellers, and more. Artists in the program present and/or demonstrate finished or in-progress handmade products. A $25/hour honorarium, housing, and some travel expenses are provided, funded by the Grand Canyon Conservancy.

These demonstrations not only enrich visitors' experiences but also foster a deeper understanding of the enduring legacy of the park's tribal communities. For more information or to participate in the program, please contact:

Daniel Pawlak, Cultural Demonstrator Program Manager
[phone] or via email at e-mail us.

 

Artists in Residence through the Grand Canyon Conservancy

The Grand Canyon Conservancy's Artist in Residence program offers artists the chance to work and create in the stunning landscape of Grand Canyon National Park. We invite Indigenous artists, knowledge-keepers, and culture-bearers to share their creative work with visitors from around the world.

Artists from various disciplines—such as storytelling, music, craft, visual art, dance, social practice, and culinary arts—are encouraged to apply. Selected artists will spend 3-10 weeks in the park, receiving a weekly stipend, a budget for travel and materials, and free live/work space.

For more information about the application process, please contact:
Clover Morell
[phone]
[e-mail]

 

Silver work by Hopi artist, Jonah Hill

Buyer Contacts for Commercial Businesses

Another option available to artists in contracting with one of the commercial services operating within Grand Canyon National Park. These businesses buy and sell art from local native artists in their gift shops.

Grand Canyon Conservancy (South and North Rims)
Christy Spivey, Senior Buyer/Inventory Manager/Publishing Manager
928-638-7151 or [e-mail]

Aramark (North Rim)
Clarenda A. Begay, Native Peoples Liaison/Buyer
505-728-0006 or [e-mail]

Delaware North Parks and Resorts (South Rim)
Weimar Tudela, Director of Retail
928-638-2262 ext. 120 or [e-mail]

Xanterra-Grand Canyon National Park Lodges (South Rim)
Gwynne Trivelpiece, Native American Handicrafts Buyer
928-638-2526 ext. 5498 or [e-mail]