Interview with Phillip Vigil

By Sam Haozous

With this interview I thought it might be interesting to get an outsider’s perspective on the SWAIA Indian Market. Since Phillip Vigil is pretty prolific on the internet with his contemporary painting and artwork, he immediately came to mind as someone to ask.

1. As an artist who has not been involved with the SWAIA Indian Market, do you think that not being involved as an artist is a hindrance?

I don't think it's hindered me at all, although it could help as well. There is so much opportunity out there, you just have to go out and look for it. Going the Indian Market route is not the only way.

2. Since you’re based in Santa Fe and have a relatively high profile online, do you believe that there is an “Indian Art runoff” for secondary artists because of Indian Market?

I'm actually not based in Santa Fe. I'm currently based in northern New Mexico, near the Colorado border. And tell you the truth I haven't noticed any "Indian Art Runoff", because I'm just out here doing my own thing. But I guess it could and does exist.

3. What has kept you from getting a booth at Indian Market in the past?

I realize it would be great exposure for my work. But then again I have a problem being labeled a "Native American Artist" as if that alone defines who I am and what my work is about. Not to say I'm not proud of who I am or where I come from. But, I've always thought about going a different route.

4. Do you go to Indian Market?

I haven't been to Indian market in a few years. But I definitely plan on going this year.

5. Any last words?

I've always refused to let where I come from to define who I am and what my work is about. There is definitely more to me than just being Native American. I never intended on becoming an artist, it just happened, literally. But it's been an amazing ride and opened my eyes to the bigger picture. It's changed my life forever and I'm forever grateful for it. It's always a reminder to me, that anything really is possible.