The culture and art of New Mexico and Southern Colorado is on full display at San Felipe’s Santero Market, which draws artists from throughout the region.
According to Brenda Barajas-Romero, the market, which kicked off this weekend according to its website, was started a decade ago by two Santeros who felt it was important to have a Santero Market in Albuquerque.
“Since San Felipe de Neri is the Mother Church, the oldest church in Albuquerque, this seemed like the most logical place to host such an event,” she said. “There was no such market in the Albuquerque area as there would be only a handful of markets in Santa Fe, Gallup, or Southern Colorado.”
Artists set up each day at 7 a.m. and tear down by 4 p.m. The market hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., according to the website. While an entry fee is charged, the money from which goes to the church, all proceeds from items sold go to directly to the artists, according to Barajas-Romero, who also noted that in past years the artists were juried and received approval from the Spanish Colonial Arts Society.
“Typically, judging is held and awards are given, although this will not be done this year,” she explained.
In 2019, thousands visited the market, which coincided with the International Balloon Fiesta. Barajas-Romero noted there are several food vendors as well, with all proceeds going to San Felipe de Neri Catholic Church. With the balloon event returning after a year off due to the pandemic, Barajas-Romero expects large crowds again this year.
“We feel it is very important to support these artists, as many of them make their living on the sales of their artwork,” she said.
The annual San Felipe de Neri Fiesta, usually held in June, had to be postponed due to the pandemic. The fundraiser provides finds for operation of the church.
The Fiesta also will include the Santero Raffle Drawing, Royal Court Crowning, and Church Raffle Drawing. The market kicked off Oct. 2-3 and will return Oct. 9-10.
An Arts and Crafts Fair will also be held that second weekend, Barajas-Romero said. "This Market is rich in history and hosts many award-winning artists. We are blessed to be able to host this event."
