Autry National Center

Autry National Center   

www.theautry.org 

For the past several years the Native American Indian Art Market has been a constant refuge on the Two Tribes pottery trail.  This annual event which is in the early week of November draws some of the most affluent, talented and eclectic Native American artists from different points and directions across the U.S.

While the show itself has changed its programming format over the years, the heart and agenda always remains the same.  Bringing together indigenous people representing their cultural heritage through the arts and the collectors and buyers that support and encourage these artistic individuals. The quality and media is always as diverse and innovative year after year,  with work in jewelry, painting, mixed media, wood work, pottery and metal work.  Photography is always proudly displayed along with textiles and the intricate, interwoven complexity of basketry. To support art show, the Autry compiles a wonderful program throughout the course of the weekend consisting of Native American singing, performers, storytellers, demonstrators and the always popular American Indian dancing.

Always held on the grounds of the Autry National Center in Griffith Park a few minutes from the bustling cosmopolitan center of downtown L.A.  This beautiful museum supports the history of the American West and has always been a promoter and a collector of Native American Art.  The collection which has an exhaustive 500,000 pieces of artifacts representing western culture and heritage which includes Native American people as well, is one of the biggest museum of its kind.  With its many programs and rotating exhibitions the Autry and its staff has always been a dedicated, friendly and supportive group.  Accommodating the artists, their friends and families to an always fun and rewarding event.  Highlights are the artist and member reception dinner, always held on the Friday evening before the weekend show, it is an opportunity for the artist the members of the museum and the collectors to socialize, mix and mingle over a spectacular dinner with all the trimmings.

It is also an evening to recognize the artists, their efforts through the Autry's art contest, an exciting evening is always on hand as we exhibit the top place finishers in each of the designated categories.

Of course the best thing about the show is to reconnect and meet up with old an new friends and artists to get together talk shop about the whole art scene and what is occurring out their in the field. It is always a time to get inspired from other peoples work, to witness the progression and changing styles of all the artists.  To listen to their stories, their walks of life, the journeys they have taken far and wide.  Even more importantly is to always talk and interact with the public to get their views on ones work and on the work of others, their encouragement, support and appreciation of what we do, is the driving mechanism to continue on the Two Tribes trail, a real POW WOW of sorts.