It's important to buy authentic Native American art. Here's a list of places you can go to see fantastic art and to purchase a piece that is authentic. Some are juried shows and some are places that I have explored where authenticity is placed high on the list of criteria for the pieces that are sold. If in doubt, always ask the artisan who made the piece, where they are from and whether or not they purchased any parts of the piece you are considering. Ask for "hand-made" items vs. "hand-crafted" pieces.
Santa Fe Indian Market, Santa Fe, NM
© Elizabeth R. Rose (Mitchell)
Each year the Santa Fe Indian Market includes 1,200 artists from about 100 tribes who show their work in over 600 booths. The event attracts an estimated 100,000 visitors to Santa Fe from all over the world. Buyers, collectors and gallery owners come to Indian Market to take advantage of the opportunity to buy directly from the artists. For many visitors, this is a rare opportunity to meet the artists and learn about contemporary Indian arts and cultures. Quality is the hallmark of the Santa Fe Indian Market. Held annually in August.
The Heard Museum Indian Market - Phoenix, AZ
© Elizabeth R. Rose (Mitchell)
The annual Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market, highlights spectacular artwork, music and dance performances, artist demonstrations, book signings and delicious Native foods.The Fair & Market draws more than 600 of the nation's finest Native American artists who show and sell authentic artwork. Peruse booths filled with jewelry, beadwork, pottery, katsina dolls, textiles, clothing, paintings, baskets and more. Held annually in March.
Litchfield Native American Arts Festival - Litchfield, AZ (West of Phoenix)
Litchfield Native Arts Market
Experience the West Valley's premier Native American Arts Festival and share in the lives of more than 200 award-winning artists! Peruse a fabulous selection of traditional and modern masterpieces including jewelry, pottery, basketry, weaving, katsinas, painting, beadwork and more while you celebrate the cultures and traditions of the Native Southwest. Enjoy authentic foods, artist demonstrations, and not-to-be missed musical performances and traditional dancing. Held annually in January.
Gallup Intertribal Ceremonial - Gallup, New Mexico
Nanabah Aragon, Expert Weaver and Educator
Held each August, the Gallup Intertribal is much more than an art show. It is a gathering of people from near and far for a Pow Wow, Rodeo, parades and, of course, arts and crafts and art show. You will find arts and crafts vendors in a courtyard but where you will find the best treasures is inside the exhibition hall. You'll see the jewelry, rugs, paintings and more. If you are quick, you may purchase an award winning piece of art.
