The Santa Fe International Folk Art Market would be nothing without the artists who come from all over the world, and the Market employees and handful of volunteers who work year-round to put it all together. But when it comes to the weekend in July itself, it’s the dedicated group of over 1500 volunteers who really shine.

Volunteers range in ages from 17 – 80 (and this year there’s a new program for younger volunteers aged 14-16), and they perform a wide range of tasks from meeting artists at the airport, working as a cashier or an artist’s assistant, helping with bus transportation or recycling or decorating the site. You can learn more about the volunteer opportunities here: Volunteer Opportunities.

So why do people do it? Prudy Krieger, the Chair of Volunteers says, “Volunteering is a great deal of fun, the atmosphere is very upbeat, and it’s a great cause.”

John Arnold, Co-chair with his wife Lynne of the artist assistant volunteers agrees: “This is the greatest volunteer effort I’ve every seen anywhere, and people feel like they’re really having an impact throughout the world.”

Shifts can be half-day, but full-day volunteers are particularly welcome.  The great majority of the volunteers offer to help out in subsequent years, some even flying in to do so.

“Volunteers often make great friends with the artists,” says Prudy, who started volunteering at the 2006 Market. “They keep in touch after the Market, and then work together the next year.”

Where possible, people can choose what sort of work they’d like to do, and training is provided.

“Without the volunteers, the Folk Art Market just couldn’t happen,” says John.

To sign up to volunteer at this year’s Market, you can call the volunteer message line at 505-476-1195, or fill out the form on the Market’s website:  Become a volunteer.