MARKET REPORT
We ask leading dealers of historic and contemporary Native American art what their thoughts are on the market and where it might be headed.
As an online-only gallery, we are located in the cloud and not tied to a specific geographic area. The first quarter of this year was quite good, but the second quarter dipped in both lookers and buyers. However, the third quarter has started off well, with an increase in web traffic and conversion to buyers. Canadian and Japanese buyers remain solid, but the core of our Native American market continues to be the United States. Continued emphasis on authenticity and staying away from cheap imports and fakes is a key for all gallery owners.
Contemporary and traditional jewelry each have their fans, and both have been selling this year. Albert Lee is about as hot as one can get; and the jewelry of Althea Cajero and Piki Wadsworth are being sought. Buyers seem to be riveted to the images and color palette of painter David K. John, and exploration of different clays, different paints and different forms seem to be successful in pottery. It appears that artists who focus on quality and innovation are being picked up faster than those who present the same styles as prior years.
Although there are many wonderful, talented artists creating beautiful works in the market today, I love the work of Ken Romero from a design perspective, the work of Albert Lee from a gorgeous stone perspective, the work of Erik Fender in pottery from a design and elegance perspective and the detailed bronzes of Joe Cajero. All produce works of art of the highest quality and are award-winners in their categories.
The Dancing Rabbit Gallery