“Is that a Penny Singer?” Every August, the annual in New Mexico draws hundreds of Indigenous artists who come to sell and display their new contemporary works. Amongst the bustling crowd and booths, you’re bound to see a handful of patrons boasting about their brand-new ribbon shirts; The Navajo designer is one of the market’s most popular attractions. “I love when people come to my booth and are amazed at what I do,” Singer tells .
“That’s what keeps me going; I love meeting new people, and talking to them about what I put on my garments.” Singer—who is based on the Navajo reservation in New Mexico—has been a mainstay at the national Indigenous market for over a decade (she also shows at other tentpole markets, such as the Heard Market in Phoenix, Arizona). “[Santa Fe] Indian Market is my biggest,” says Singer.
“That's pretty much my income.” Particularly, the designer has become known over the years for her striking ribbon shirts, crafted for both men and women (she also designs jackets and skirts). “I’m known for contemporary geometric appliqué work,” says Singer.
“I create contemporary wearable art that both Natives and non-Natives can wear.” The designer’s successful fashion line first began back in the 2000s, when Singer was beginning to study traditional design techniques in college. She specifically took an interest in southwest appliqué styles.
“I knew how to sew, but appliqué was new to me,” says Singer. “I had .