Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day at the Verde Valley Archaeology Center and Museum on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a fun day recognizing the heritage, culture and continued contributions of Native Americans and indigenous peoples.
The festivities include a Native American Artist Market featuring over 30 artists specializing in fine art, weaving, pottery, jewelry, katsinas, silversmith work, apparel and crafts. Plus, homemade fry bread will be available for purchase. There will be free admission for both the market and museum.
At noon, Clive J Hustito, “Zuni Pathfinder of The Light,” will give a talk on Zuni fetishes, their symbolism and their relationship to all people in the present day.
Hustito started carving animals when he was 8 years old. From there, he ascended to become a master carver and sculptor of the Zuni Tribe. He has made fetish carvings and sculptures for over 30 years and will be presenting other multi-media arts and crafts he’s created.
Zuni fetishes are miniature sculptures, typically carved from stone but also shell, fossilized material or other natural substances, crafted by Zuni artisans.
Among the Zuni, these small figures hold ceremonial significance for the artists, often representing animals and symbols central to Zuni spiritual life. Other Southwestern indigenous peoples — including the Hopi, Navajo and Pueblo communities like the Kewa Pueblo — had their own traditions of carving and using similar fetishes.
Seating for the presentation is located inside the museum and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Following Hustito’s talk, a complimentary reception of hors d’oeuvres and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.
“Alongside preserving and conserving archaeology, a core part of the museum’s mission is to educate and part of that education is through cross-cultural connections,” VVAC’s Executive Director Monica Buckle said. “One of the best ways to learn is to meet people of various backgrounds and heritages in person and to speak with them. It’s also essential to buy directly from Native American artists, where you can see their crafts, speak with the artists and support them.”
On Oct. 10, the Town of Camp Verde is celebrating Fort Verde Days with a parade at 10 a.m. There will be a short road closure of Finnie Flat Road. During the closure, the public can still access the museum via the Bashas’ shopping plaza entrance next to Circle K on Finnie Flat Road.
The museum is located at 460 W. Finnie Flat Road in Camp Verde. For more information, visit verdevalleyarchaeology.org.
