Just because it's no longer particularly surprising when organizers cancel events due to COVID-19, that doesn't mean it doesn't still sting.
With the big three summer markets (Spanish Market, Indian Market and the International Folk Art Market) already calling it quits for 2020 over health concerns, news that the upcoming 11th annual Folk Art Flea slated for June is now kaput until 2021 feels a bit like a pile-on. Also canceled are the associated donation days whereby gently used folk art pieces might have found second lives with collectors.
"Though we had already begun preparations, we decided we could not confidently hold the event this year and ensure the safety of our customers," Friends of Folk Art board chair Edelma Huntley says in a press release. "We are exploring other creative ways, including online events, to continue supporting the museum. Flea shoppers are encouraged to visit the Museum of International Folk Art's website for museum and flea-related updates."
The event's fundraising efforts for the Museum of International Folk Arts' educational programs hasve been an inestimably valuable facet of the Santa Fe cultural landscape, particularly since the museum has offered some very cool online content in the weeks since the shelter-in-place mandate went into effect. Donation opportunities still abound.
The 2021 Folk Art Flea has already been scheduled for next June.
