Native American Artist's web sites

In a recent survey, Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA) determined that fewer than 25% of the artists surveyed have their own web site, although more than 50% use a computer in one way or another.

Frankly, we support the concept of Native American artist web sites. Just as we support Indian Market as an opportunity for artists to get full retail prices for their work.

As someone who has built and maintains web sites, however, I know it is not a part-time job. In my opinion, the artists' time will be more productively spent doing what they do best and love to do; creating art.

Fortunately for the artists and for the customers who love their creations, there are web sites like these (Native-JewelryLink.com, ZuniLink.com, Native-PotteryLink.com and TribalWorks.com) to provide an outlet and a medium for the acquisition of the art production.

By the way, while we understand some dealers operate on a consignment basis, we do not. We pay cash for every item we purchase, providing the artists with steady and assured income for their efforts. The artists could eventually get somewhat more for their work under the consignment system. But they almost certainly will have to wait until it is resold to realize any cash flow. And cash flow is what puts food in the cupboard and supplies on the worktable.

That's why we like to do business the way we do.