How to Shop for Native Art at Eiteljorg Gift Shop Indianapolis

The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art in Indianapolis is more than a cultural institution—it is a living archive of Indigenous creativity, history, and resilience. At the heart of this experience lies the Eiteljorg Gift Shop, a curated space where visitors can bring home authentic Native art crafted by Indigenous artists across North America. Whether you're a collector, a cultural enthusiast, or simply seeking a meaningful souvenir, shopping for Native art at the Eiteljorg Gift Shop offers a rare opportunity to support living traditions while owning a piece of enduring heritage. Unlike mass-produced souvenirs, the items here are made with intention, rooted in ancestral knowledge, and often tell stories passed down through generations. Understanding how to navigate this space thoughtfully ensures your purchase is not only beautiful but ethically and culturally respectful. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you shop with confidence, knowledge, and integrity at the Eiteljorg Gift Shop in Indianapolis.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Begin with Research Before You Visit

While spontaneous discovery has its charm, preparing ahead of time enhances your experience significantly. Visit the Eiteljorg Museum’s official website and explore the Gift Shop section. Many items featured in-store are also listed online, including artist names, tribal affiliations, and descriptions of materials and techniques. Familiarize yourself with the types of art commonly represented—such as pottery from Pueblo nations, beadwork from Plains tribes, silver jewelry from Navajo and Zuni artisans, and contemporary Indigenous paintings. Understanding these categories will help you recognize authenticity and value when you’re in the store. Additionally, check the museum’s current exhibitions; often, the Gift Shop features complementary items related to the featured artists or themes, offering deeper context for your purchases.

2. Enter with Respect and Curiosity

Approach the Gift Shop not as a typical retail environment, but as an extension of the museum’s mission to honor and elevate Native voices. Take a moment to observe the layout and presentation. Items are often grouped by region, medium, or artist, reflecting cultural connections rather than commercial convenience. Avoid touching items unless invited to do so—many pieces are delicate, and some may carry spiritual significance. Your quiet attentiveness sets the tone for an ethical and meaningful interaction with the space and its offerings.

3. Look for Artist Identification

Every authentic Native artwork in the Eiteljorg Gift Shop should be clearly labeled with the artist’s name, tribal affiliation, and often the year of creation. This is not just a formality—it’s a vital part of cultural preservation. When you find a piece that resonates with you, pause and read the label. Is the artist from a federally recognized tribe? Are they a member of a specific nation, such as the Hopi, Cherokee, or Ojibwe? This information connects the object to a living community, not a generic “Native” stereotype. Avoid items that lack this information; they may be mass-produced imitations. The museum’s commitment to transparency means you can trust the provenance of every item on display.

4. Understand the Medium and Technique

Native art is defined by its materials and methods. For example, traditional Navajo silverwork often involves hand-stamped designs, turquoise and coral inlays, and techniques passed from grandparent to grandchild. Hopi pottery is coil-built and fired outdoors using natural pigments. Zuni fetish carvings are meticulously carved from stone and often represent animal spirits. Learn to recognize these hallmarks. In the Gift Shop, you’ll find labels explaining these processes—read them. Ask questions if you’re unsure. Understanding how something was made deepens your appreciation and helps you distinguish genuine craftsmanship from factory-made replicas. Don’t hesitate to ask a staff member to point out the difference between machine-cut beads and hand-sewn ones, or between kiln-fired ceramics and those made with ancestral firing methods.

5. Prioritize Direct Artist Representation

One of the most important principles of ethical Native art shopping is supporting artists directly. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop partners with artists and cooperatives that ensure fair compensation and cultural integrity. Look for items labeled “Artist Direct” or “Eiteljorg-Selected Artist.” These are pieces chosen by the museum’s curatorial team for their quality, authenticity, and alignment with Indigenous values. Avoid items that are labeled vaguely as “Native-inspired” or “Southwestern style”—these terms often mask cultural appropriation. Genuine Native art is made by enrolled members of Indigenous nations, not by non-Native designers borrowing motifs. The museum’s selection process ensures that profits return to the artists and their communities, making your purchase an act of solidarity.

6. Ask About Cultural Significance

Many pieces carry deep spiritual, ceremonial, or familial meaning. A kachina doll from the Hopi, for instance, is not merely a decorative object—it represents a spiritual being and is often used in religious ceremonies. A medicine bag may contain sacred items and be created for a specific purpose. While you don’t need to know every detail, it’s respectful to ask: “Is there a cultural story behind this piece?” or “How is this item traditionally used?” Staff members are trained to share this context thoughtfully. Their answers will help you understand whether an item is appropriate for personal ownership and how to honor its origins. Never assume that all Native art is for sale or that every symbol is meant to be worn or displayed casually.

7. Compare Prices and Value

Authentic Native art is labor-intensive and requires years of training. Prices may be higher than mass-market alternatives, but they reflect the time, skill, and cultural knowledge invested. A hand-beaded moccasin may take 80–120 hours to complete. A hand-carved silver bracelet may involve sourcing natural turquoise from a family mine. Compare similar items: if one piece is significantly cheaper, investigate why. Is it machine-made? Is the artist unidentified? Is the material synthetic? The Eiteljorg Gift Shop’s pricing is transparent and reflects fair trade principles. You’re paying for authenticity, not markup. Remember: buying cheap often means exploiting someone else’s heritage.

8. Consider the Long-Term Value

Native art is not disposable décor. Many pieces appreciate in value over time, especially when made by renowned or emerging artists. Pieces from artists who later gain national recognition—such as those featured in Smithsonian exhibitions or major art galleries—can become collectible. Even if you’re purchasing for personal enjoyment, think of your item as an heirloom. Store it properly, handle it with care, and consider documenting its story: who made it, when, and why you chose it. This transforms a purchase into a legacy.

9. Take Your Time

There’s no rush. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop is designed for contemplation, not impulse buying. Sit with a piece. Hold it (if permitted). Notice the texture, weight, and craftsmanship. Does it feel alive? Does it speak to you? The best purchases are those made with quiet intention, not urgency. If you’re unsure, take a photo, revisit the item later, or ask to be notified if it’s restocked. Many visitors return the next day to make their final decision—and that’s perfectly normal.

10. Complete Your Purchase with Intention

When you’re ready to buy, thank the staff. Your gratitude acknowledges the cultural labor behind the object. Request a receipt that includes the artist’s name and tribal affiliation—it’s your proof of authenticity and a record for future generations. If you’re purchasing a gift, consider including a small note explaining the origin and significance of the piece. This transforms a simple transaction into a moment of cultural education and respect.

Best Practices

1. Avoid Cultural Appropriation

Cultural appropriation occurs when elements of a marginalized culture are adopted by members of a dominant culture without understanding or respecting their meaning. In the context of Native art, this includes buying items that mimic sacred symbols, wearing ceremonial regalia as costume, or purchasing mass-produced “Indian” trinkets. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop is curated to prevent this. Stick to items that are clearly made by enrolled Indigenous artists. If a design feels sacred or ceremonial—like a war bonnet, medicine wheel, or specific clan symbol—do not buy it unless you understand its context and have been explicitly invited to do so by the community. When in doubt, leave it.

2. Support Living Artists, Not Stereotypes

Native art is not frozen in time. Contemporary Indigenous artists blend traditional techniques with modern aesthetics, creating powerful statements about identity, sovereignty, and resilience. Look for pieces that reflect this evolution—a beaded smartphone case, a ceramic sculpture addressing climate change, a painting that fuses ancestral motifs with abstract expressionism. These works honor the past while asserting the present. Avoid items that portray Native people as “noble savages,” “warriors,” or “ghosts of the past.” The Eiteljorg Gift Shop intentionally avoids these tropes, focusing instead on authentic, current expressions of Native life.

3. Understand Tribal Sovereignty

Each federally recognized tribe is a sovereign nation with its own laws, traditions, and intellectual property rights. What is acceptable to make or sell in one nation may be sacred or restricted in another. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop respects these boundaries. When you see an item labeled “Cherokee” or “Lakota,” know that the artist has the right to create and sell it within their cultural framework. Do not question or generalize across tribes. Treat each cultural origin as distinct and honored.

4. Educate Yourself Continuously

Shopping for Native art is not a one-time event—it’s the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning. After your visit, read books by Native authors such as Louise Erdrich, Tommy Orange, or Leslie Marmon Silko. Watch documentaries like “We Are Still Here” or “The Return of Navajo Boy.” Follow Indigenous artists on social media. The more you know, the more discerning and respectful your future purchases will be. The Eiteljorg Museum offers educational programs and publications that deepen this understanding—take advantage of them.

5. Be Mindful of Sacred Objects

Some items, such as eagle feathers, certain ceremonial masks, or ritual tools, are protected under federal law (like the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act) and cannot be legally sold or owned by non-Native individuals. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop complies strictly with these regulations. If you see an item that seems spiritually significant, assume it is off-limits unless explicitly stated otherwise. Never assume that “if it’s for sale, it’s okay to buy.” Many sacred items are never sold, even to tribal members, and are only passed down through lineage.

6. Respect the Artist’s Voice

When you purchase an item, you are not just buying an object—you are entering into a relationship with the artist and their community. If the artist has shared a story about their work (through a label, video, or exhibition), honor that narrative. Do not alter the item’s meaning by repurposing it in ways that contradict its origin. For example, turning a ceremonial drum into a coffee table is disrespectful. Display it with reverence, not as furniture.

7. Avoid “Tribal” as a Generic Term

There are over 570 federally recognized tribes in the United States alone, each with unique languages, histories, and artistic traditions. Avoid using the word “tribal” as a catch-all descriptor. Instead, name the specific nation when possible: “Navajo silver ring,” “Hopi kachina doll,” “Ojibwe quillwork belt.” Precision is a form of respect. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop consistently uses specific tribal names, and you should too.

8. Consider the Environmental Impact

Many Native artists use natural, sustainable materials: turquoise mined with care, plant-based dyes, sustainably harvested porcupine quills, and reclaimed silver. By choosing these pieces, you support environmentally conscious practices. Avoid items made with synthetic plastics, cheap metals, or imported materials that contradict traditional ecological knowledge. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop prioritizes eco-responsible sourcing, aligning with Indigenous values of stewardship.

9. Don’t Haggling

Native art is not a commodity to be bargained down. The price reflects the artist’s time, skill, and cultural labor. Haggling undermines the dignity of the creator and the integrity of the museum’s ethical model. Pay the listed price with gratitude. If the cost is beyond your budget, consider saving for it, making a smaller purchase, or returning later. True value is not measured in discount percentages.

10. Share the Story, Not Just the Object

When you take your purchase home, don’t keep its story to yourself. Share the artist’s name, tribe, and technique with friends and family. Display it proudly, with context. This transforms your purchase from a private possession into a public act of cultural affirmation. It also helps dismantle harmful stereotypes by showing that Native art is alive, evolving, and deeply meaningful.

Tools and Resources

1. Eiteljorg Museum Website

The official website (eiteljorg.org) is your primary resource. It features a searchable online gift shop, artist profiles, exhibition details, and educational materials. Use the “Gift Shop” tab to browse items before your visit. Many pieces available in-store are also listed online with high-resolution images and detailed descriptions.

2. Native Art Marketplaces

For broader context, explore other reputable Native art platforms like the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA), the Indian Arts and Crafts Board (IACB), and the Heard Museum Shop. These organizations uphold strict standards for authenticity and help you recognize legitimate sellers versus imitators.

3. Books for Deeper Understanding

Build your knowledge with these essential titles:

• Native American Art in the Twentieth Century by W. Jackson Rushing
• The Art of Native American Basketry by Linda S. Cordell
• Contemporary Native American Artists by Joseph M. Marshall III
• Indigenous Art: A Global Perspective by Charlotte Townsend-Gault

4. Museum Publications and Brochures

At the Eiteljorg Gift Shop, you’ll find curated brochures and exhibition catalogs that accompany the current displays. These are often available for purchase and include artist interviews, historical context, and cultural notes. They’re invaluable for understanding the deeper meaning behind the art.

5. Online Artist Databases

Use the Indian Arts and Crafts Board database to verify whether an artist is enrolled in a federally recognized tribe. This tool helps confirm authenticity and supports ethical purchasing.

6. Social Media and Artist Portfolios

Many Eiteljorg-affiliated artists maintain Instagram, Facebook, or personal websites showcasing their process, inspiration, and upcoming shows. Following them allows you to connect directly with the creators and understand their work beyond the museum walls.

7. Educational Workshops

Check the Eiteljorg Museum’s calendar for workshops on Native art techniques—beadwork, pottery, silversmithing, or storytelling. Participating in these programs gives you firsthand appreciation for the skill involved and strengthens your ability to recognize quality in the Gift Shop.

8. The IACB Authenticity Seal

Look for the Indian Arts and Crafts Act (IACA) seal on items. This federally mandated label confirms that the product is genuinely made by an enrolled member of a state or federally recognized tribe. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop displays this seal on qualifying items, providing an extra layer of assurance.

9. Museum Staff as Guides

Don’t underestimate the knowledge of the Gift Shop staff. Many have backgrounds in anthropology, art history, or Indigenous studies. They can point you to lesser-known artists, explain regional styles, and help you navigate the collection with cultural sensitivity.

10. Visitor Feedback and Reviews

Read verified visitor reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Google. While personal opinions vary, recurring themes—such as “incredible craftsmanship” or “artist stories made me cry”—can guide your expectations and deepen your appreciation before you arrive.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Navajo Silver and Turquoise Ring

During a visit in spring 2023, a collector from Chicago selected a silver ring with a natural turquoise stone set in a traditional stamp-work design. The label identified the artist as Delbert Begay, a Navajo silversmith from Ganado, Arizona, who learned the craft from his grandfather. The stone was sourced from a family mine in Nevada, and the stamping was done entirely by hand using 19th-century tools. The ring cost $285. The buyer later learned that Begay’s work had been featured in the Smithsonian’s “Native Modern” exhibition. The purchase not only added a beautiful piece to their collection but supported a multi-generational artistic lineage. The buyer now displays the ring with a small note explaining its origin, sparking conversations during gatherings.

Example 2: A Hopi Kachina Doll

A teacher from Indianapolis purchased a small kachina doll carved from cottonwood root and painted with natural pigments. The label noted it was made by Michael Kabotie, a Hopi artist from Second Mesa. The doll represented the Katsina spirit of the harvest. The teacher used it in a classroom lesson on Indigenous agricultural practices, showing students how art and spirituality are intertwined in Hopi culture. The doll now resides on a shelf in the classroom, accompanied by a printed artist biography and a thank-you note from the museum’s education department.

Example 3: A Contemporary Ojibwe Beaded Mug

A young professional bought a beaded ceramic mug featuring abstract floral patterns inspired by traditional Ojibwe floral beadwork. The artist, Leanne Betasamosake Simpson, is a Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg writer and artist who reimagines ancestral motifs in functional art. The mug was labeled “Functional Art, Not Souvenir.” The buyer uses it daily and shares its story on social media, tagging the artist and the Eiteljorg Museum. This purchase challenged the notion that Native art must be “traditional” to be valuable—it showed that innovation and heritage can coexist.

Example 4: A Zuni Fetish Carving

A family visiting from Texas selected a small bear fetish carved from serpentine stone by a Zuni artist from Zuni Pueblo. The artist included a handwritten note explaining that the bear symbolizes protection and healing. The family placed it on their mantel and later donated a portion of their museum membership fee to the Eiteljorg’s Native Artist Fund. Their experience exemplifies how a single purchase can become part of a larger commitment to cultural equity.

Example 5: A Quillwork Belt from the Lakota Nation

A museum volunteer purchased a narrow belt made from porcupine quills dyed with plant-based pigments, woven into a geometric pattern that told the story of a Lakota winter count. The artist, Rosemary Red Cloud, is a fourth-generation quillworker. The belt took over 200 hours to complete. The volunteer now teaches workshops on Indigenous textile arts and uses the belt as a teaching tool. It has become a centerpiece in their home, a daily reminder of patience, skill, and cultural endurance.

FAQs

Can I return or exchange an item from the Eiteljorg Gift Shop?

Yes, the Eiteljorg Gift Shop accepts returns within 30 days with a receipt, provided the item is in its original condition. However, due to the cultural and artistic nature of the pieces, exchanges are handled on a case-by-case basis. Staff will work with you to find a suitable alternative if the original item doesn’t meet your expectations.

Are all items in the Gift Shop made by Native artists?

Yes. The Eiteljorg Museum strictly adheres to the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990, which prohibits the misrepresentation of Native-made goods. Every item in the Gift Shop is verified as authentic and created by enrolled members of federally recognized tribes or their descendants.

Do you offer gift wrapping?

Yes, the Gift Shop offers complimentary, eco-friendly wrapping using recycled paper and natural twine. You can also request a personalized card with a message about the artist and cultural significance of the item.

Is it possible to commission a custom piece?

While the Gift Shop does not offer direct commissioning, staff can connect you with artists who accept custom orders. Many artists featured in the shop take private commissions for jewelry, pottery, or textiles. Requests are handled with cultural sensitivity and transparency.

How do I know if a piece is truly handmade?

Look for slight imperfections—uneven stamping, variations in bead size, brushstroke differences. These are signs of handcrafting. Machine-made items are uniform and lack the subtle irregularities that come from human hands. Labels will also specify “handmade” or “handcrafted.”

Are prices negotiable?

No. Prices reflect the artist’s labor, materials, and cultural value. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop does not engage in haggling to honor the integrity of the artists and their work.

Can I buy Native art online from the Eiteljorg Gift Shop?

Yes. The museum’s website offers a secure online store with curated selections from the physical Gift Shop. Shipping is available nationwide, and each item includes the same detailed provenance as in-store purchases.

Do you offer discounts for students or seniors?

Yes. Students and seniors receive a 10% discount on all Gift Shop purchases with valid identification. This discount applies to both in-store and online transactions.

What should I do if I suspect an item is inauthentic?

If you have concerns about the authenticity of an item, speak with a staff member immediately. The museum takes cultural integrity seriously and will investigate any concerns. You can also report suspected violations to the Indian Arts and Crafts Board.

Is it appropriate to wear Native art as fashion?

It depends. If the item is a bracelet, necklace, or ring made by a Native artist for general wear, yes—it’s appropriate and encouraged. However, avoid wearing ceremonial regalia, sacred symbols, or items with spiritual meaning as costume. When in doubt, ask. The museum’s staff are here to guide you respectfully.

Conclusion

Shopping for Native art at the Eiteljorg Gift Shop in Indianapolis is not merely a transaction—it is an act of cultural stewardship. Each piece you choose carries the breath of an ancestor, the skill of a master, and the resilience of a people who have endured centuries of erasure. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you ensure your purchase honors the artist, respects the culture, and contributes to the continuation of Indigenous traditions. You become more than a buyer—you become a witness, a keeper of stories, and a partner in cultural survival. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop stands as a rare space where commerce and conscience intersect, where beauty is inseparable from meaning. When you leave with your chosen item, take with you not just an object, but a responsibility: to remember the hands that made it, the land it came from, and the living communities it represents. Let your next purchase be more than a souvenir. Let it be a statement. Let it be a bridge. Let it be a promise—to learn, to listen, and to honor.