Collecting Native American Art Work - Points to Ponder...

Collecting Native American Art Work

Because of increase public exposure, collecting Native American art work, arts and crafts are gaining in popularity with more people seeking authentic items, either antiques or contemporary. But like any other cultural genre, collecting Native art work covers a very broad field...which of the hundreds of tribes to concentrate on...which of the many types of items to concentrate on. Each tribe had its own traditions that were reflected in these items made to be used in their everyday life. Only after contact with Europeans and the desire to collect Native American goods were items made for artistic sake.

Native cultures were not destroyed by the Europeans...forced removal and acculturation made some inroads, but not totally. Tribes had begun to make objects that they could sell or trade. With many tribes living together on reservations, motifs, techniques and styles were borrowed across tribal lines. Trade provided a means for native peoples to support themselves in a market economy while remaining within their cultural boundaries.

Now, for many tribes, there has been a renewal of pride in tradition and culture. That pride is spilling over into artistic endeavors.

But, for you, collecting Native American art work means what? Whatever you like, of course!

After a few pieces are acquired, your collection will more or less start to define itself - there will be a theme or common thread. Purchase the highest quality your budget will allow...value is determined by quality of workmanship, condition and aesthetics.

As alluded to earlier, there are many avenues for collecting Native American art work that you can concentrate on. Is a specific type of manufacture of interest, such as pottery or baskets? Is a specific tribe of interest such as Zuni or Seminole? What about a type of object, such as kachinas or jewelry?

Seek out a reputable dealer to guide you and who can provide authenticity documentation. Powwows are also an excellent venue whereby you can ask questions and make contacts. Museums and art galleries will provide exposure to items that may pique your interest.

Recap of considerations when collecting Native American art work:

Stay informed on the type of object collected
The period in which the object was made
The tribe
The geographic area
The type of workmanship (coiled baskets are more desirable than twined)
The material from which it was made
The accompanying documentation
The rarity of the item
The design motifs (objects with human figures and American flag motifs often bring higher prices than earlier traditional geometric motifs)
Legal criteria (made from endangered species; title questions on certain ceremonial objects; objects excavated illegally...)
First-time buyers should ask questions about the origins of an item (made by Native Americans, made in the traditional manner, made from natural materials)
Jewelry should be made from natural metals and stones
Pottery should be proportional and balanced
Weaving should reflect quality, balance and design
Baskets should be woven with natural materials

Of course, I ALWAYS have a "But..."

There a quite a number of beautiful but not-quite-perfect items on the market. And, there are contemporary, beautiful pieces as well. If you are interested in collecting Native American art work that is older, buy it now and hold on to it! There are utilitarian items that may not exhibit "artistry" but show wonderful form, fascinating uses of raw materials, unusual construction techniques or ingenious adaptation after centuries of trial-and-error. It would focus your search on the people who made them rather than the object itself.

There are also those items with dents and dings that would make them more affordable yet still valued. Those imperfections may signal that the item was actually used, may add to the character of the piece.

There are items that have some damage or have been restored. These too are more affordable. Collecting these items should be encouraged and nurtured.

High prices should not be a deterant for collecting historic or contemporary Native American art and material culture. Utilitarian and "less-than-perfect" pieces can build a rewarding collection. This is "the thrill of the hunt!"

If Collecting Native American Art Work is of interest for either buying or collecting, become familiar with it. Visit museums to study the various forms, materials, tribal affiliations and designs. Go to art shows that showcase Native American artisans. Antique shows are also a good venue - go through the booths of vendors selling these items. If they are passionate about what they have, they will answer your questions. And, of course, inter-tribal powwows are excellent venues to look and ask.

You can also go the The Indian Arts and Crafts Association for a listing of registered and certified Native American Artisans.

Above all, any art form being marketed as a genuine Native American handcrafted item must legally be just that. The spirit of the law is that any artwork or craft fashioned by a Native American, the artisan must be a member of an Indian Tribe, and their membership has been verified and certified.

These Native American artisans are practicing their art perhaps as a livelihood. And, through their art, they are keeping their culture, history and spirituality alive.

Native American Arts has free e-books covering the subjects of Collecting and Fraudulence that are excellent!

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