1. What are the sources
for American Indian Art? Isn't it better to purchase directly
from the artist?
Answer: There
are different ways of acquiring American Indian arts and crafts
-- buying from
the artist, shops/galleries and from special shows/ceremonials.
Everyone will collect differently -- some only with dealers
and
some who may add pieces purchased directly from artists. The "best" way
overall to collect, is to purchase what you like, what fits your
budget and to be assured of what you are purchasing. Many
artists establish retail prices for their work, and offer dealers
a re-sale discount, so the prices you would pay are often the
same. While there is a small artist minority who can make their
living by selling their work directly, the success of the majority
of artists depends on strong relationships with representatives
and galleries who market and promote their work.
2. Where do Indian
artists get ie., lapis? That's not traditional is it?
Answer: Today
artists are using many materials that may or may not be indigenous
to
their area. Historically, many materials such as shells were
traded among tribes. With the arrival of Europeans, trade for
other materials
such as beads, silver, and gold began. All art evolves, and the
term "traditional" may have different interpretations at different
periods in history. From the beginning of time, all peoples
have
borrowed from eachother and over time, traditions have evolved.
Today many artists seek out a variety of materials to achieve
their expression of art, most often made available by gem/supply
stores or through traders who assist in being a source for
artists.
The evolution of the arts is one of the exciting aspects of buying
American Indian arts and crafts.
3. Which is the best
piece of i.e., pottery I should buy? Which i.e., kachina is my
best investment?
Answer: When
you are buying American Indian arts and crafts you are buying
a piece
of art -- your personal taste and budget will guide you to the
right choice. We recommend buying first and foremost because
you
like a piece. There is good quality work being done today by
many artists, in different styles and price ranges. Decide
on the style
of work you like -- subtle detail or very fine detail; traditional,
contemporary or somewhere in between. Some people may collect
work by certain artists or artist families, some may collect
themes
or want particular tribal areas, some may want "name" artists
and others enjoy collecting emerging artists works -- and some
may collect one or two pieces while still others collect a bit
of everything! Collecting and buying Indian arts and crafts is
very personal and is exciting for many different reasons. For
those who choose to invest in the grace and beauty of an object
of art, collecting authentic American Indian arts and crafts
will
continue to be a rewarding experience.-
