Native American Art

Our Native American Art

Whether you’re looking for a decoration for your living room, or a perfect gift for your loved one, Cameron Trading Post has many authentic pieces of Native American art, which demonstrate the historical, cultural, and religious works of various Southwestern Native American tribes. We sell items directly from skilled artists who meticulously craft baskets, dreamcatchers and mandellas, pottery, rugs, sand paintings, beadwork, alabaster sculptures, drums, carvings, fetishes, kachinas, dolls, and many other unique gifts. Below are just some of the most popular pieces of art that our customers shop for:

Navajo Rugs

Navajo rugs are a testament to the skill, patience, and creativity of Navajo weavers. Each rug is handwoven on a loom using techniques passed down through generations. The wool, often shorn from the artist’s own sheep, is cleaned, carded, and spun by hand before being dyed with natural colors derived from plants and minerals found in the surrounding landscape.

The intricate Navajo rug designs are not just decorative but carry cultural significance, telling stories of the Navajo way of life, beliefs, and history. The process of weaving a single rug can take months or even years to complete, making each piece a unique work of art.

Navajo Pottery

Navajo pottery is distinguished by its hand-coiled construction, a method that has been preserved over centuries. Artists use native clay, shaping each piece by hand without the use of a potter’s wheel, and then decorate them with traditional designs using natural pigments.

After drying, the pottery is fired in open pits or kilns, a delicate process that requires precise control to achieve the desired finish. This pottery is not only an art form but also a functional part of daily life, used for cooking, storage, and ceremonial purposes.

Wedding Vases

The wedding vase is a poignant symbol in Native American art and culture, particularly among the Navajo. Handcrafted from clay, each vase features two spouts connected by a single handle, representing the union of two lives. The intricate designs and patterns that adorn these vases are deeply symbolic, often invoking blessings for a harmonious and prosperous marriage.

Crafting a wedding vase is a sacred process, imbued with prayers and good wishes for the couple. These vases are a cherished part of wedding ceremonies and are treasured as heirlooms.

Dolls

Navajo dolls are more than toys; they are a medium through which stories, traditions, and cultural values are passed down to younger generations. Handmade with natural materials such as cloth, wood, and leather, each doll is dressed in traditional Navajo attire, reflecting the attire of the tribe and teaching children about their heritage.

The making of Navajo dolls is a careful, thoughtful process, often reflecting the personal style of the Native American artist while adhering to traditional forms and motifs.

Native American Art FAQs

Where can I support Native American artists?

To support Native American artists, consider purchasing directly from reservations and trading posts like Cameron Trading Post. Other options are to support artists through Native American-owned galleries or through reputable online marketplaces that collaborate directly with indigenous creators. In addition, you can attend art shows, fairs, and cultural events that feature Native American artists to support them directly. Always be on the lookout for venues and platforms that ensure artists receive fair compensation and recognition for their work.

What is the oldest piece of Native American art?

The oldest piece of known painted Native American art is believed to be the Cooper Bison skull, which dates back to over 10,000 years ago, which was found near Clovis, New Mexico. This ancient artifact, painted with a red ochre design, represents the deep historical roots and artistic expressions of Native American cultures from the very earliest inhabitants of North America.

How to find Native American artists?

Finding Native American artists can be done by visiting Native American cultural centers, museums, and art galleries that specialize in indigenous art. Many artists also have an online presence through their personal websites or social media platforms. Additionally, attending Native American art markets, festivals, and exhibitions is a great way to discover and meet with artists directly. Connecting with Native American artists ensures that you will be investing in genuine works of art, which will accurately demonstrate the culture and religious significance of the piece.

How can I tell that Native American art is genuine?

For a peace of mind that your Native American rug, pottery, or other art is genuine, look for pieces accompanied by a certificate of authenticity or sold through reputable galleries and organizations that specialize in indigenous art. Additionally, genuine Native American art often includes the artist’s signature or hallmark. Educating yourself about the styles, materials, and techniques of different tribes and artists can also help in identifying authentic pieces.

Selling Native American Art Since 1916

Let Cameron Trading Post be your source for Native American art online! For more than a century, we have been a trusted source of Navajo rugs, pottery, vases, dolls, and other pieces of art since we first opened in 1916. The artistry of the Navajo people is a profound expression of their identity and heritage. Each rug, piece of pottery, wedding vase, and doll is not just a beautiful object but a continuation of a legacy that has been passed down through generations.

These handmade pieces are a testament to the skill, dedication, and cultural depth of Native American artists, embodying the spirit of a people deeply connected to their history, land, and traditions. Shop Native American art online with Cameron Trading Post today!