Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Shopping At Native American Stores

By Daphne Bowen


In the past decade or so there has been a huge movement towards supporting local craftsmen and women. These are people who are trying to make a living producing beautiful and unique items. Many work from their own homes and spend many long hours each week working. For many the skills they learned from their parents are already many generations old and have been passed down through the years.

The retail market has never been so competitive as it is today. One of the best new branches to join the ranks of retail outlets are native American stores. These are shops that sell crafts, artifacts, jewelry and artwork created by members of the indigenous population. It is clear that each piece has a story behind it and has been lovingly crafted by someone who really cares about what they do.

It is also possible to shop at a native owned store on line. In order to be competitive in today's economy it is essential to have on line outlets too. This allows people from all over the world to access the merchandise and become customers. It also generates much bigger markets for the vendors and can really change the dynamics of their sales.

Many people are only just beginning to realize how complex the native cultures were. They were typically based on a nomadic lifestyle, although some tribes were farmers who had extensive villages and towns. The lifestyle of the tribe was displayed in its art. For example, the war like plains people used feathers to show their ability in battle. They were also very dependent on their horses. In consequence, horses are often represented in their work.

Probably the best know style of native artwork is that of the desert southwest. There is a long tradition of working with silver, to make both jewelry and ornamental wear. The prankster of the culture is a small figure called Kokopelli. He is often featured in local artwork and jewelry. This mythical being has really become quite famous and having a piece of necklace or bracelet with his image is really quite a talking point.

Jewelry is always a welcome addition to any woman's closet and a there are many great items to choose from. Most of the jewelry produced by native craftsmen and women is inspired by nature. The colors and designs all have a story behind them and this adds to their charm. Most can be gift wrapped and shipped any where in the world.

The plains Indian culture was focused on the horse. Many beautiful pieces of art have been created that use horses as inspiration. In combination with the outstanding natural beauty of the central plains this style has developed into something really unique. There are now a growing number of private collectors who generate a thriving market for this art.

The native tribes of the Pacific north west have a very distinctive lifestyle and culture. The ocean is the basis of their lives. They have many creation stories that have been passed down for generations. This can be seen in their work which is now being displayed and sold in many shops throughout the country and also on line.




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