Blue Ribbon Tales

The major Indian arts shows in the Southwest have been around since the 1920s. Most of these venues have juried art competitions where Native artists can win awards — designated by Blue Ribbons — for the best work. Artists agree that winning ribbons can help elevate a career and attract sales and collectors. Many of these same people also admit that prizes can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, they bring valuable attention to the artist’s work. On the other hand, they create jealousy, arouse discontent, and place undue pressure on the competitor. One artist, a veteran of more than thirty years, confided to me one time that he was glad he won so many ribbons when starting out but now finds them superfluous. He feels the true reward comes from the buyer.


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