Shopping
Cameron Trading Post
No matter what brought you to the Southwest, the odds are you will eventually spend some time shopping. It may be the t-shirt announcing that you “hiked the Grand Canyon” or some prized Native American artwork or jewelry. You’ll certainly find countless options for spending your money. The good news is that you?ll also find unique items that remind you of your journey long after you head for home. You might choose Canyon Road in Santa Fe, buy directly from an artist at Acoma Pueblo or visit a local trading post.
Trading posts have been a part of the Southwestern landscape since the 1800s. They served as a pace to buy, sell, trade or just catch up on the local news. Today, trading posts provide visitors with authentic Native American crafts as well as souvenirs from all over the world. Places such as Cameron Trading Post have very large collections from museum quality pottery, jewelry and kachinas to the ever present scorpion or tarantula permanently encased in resin.
Kachinas
Thankfully, there still are many places where you can meet the artist who created the item you intend to buy. While it is thrilling to collect prize-winning art, it is often just as satisfying to have met the person who lovingly crafted the affordable pottery or necklace you just purchased.
Although most shops and trading posts accept credit cards, it is wise to bring along cash as well. Some artists who display in remote roadside stands or small villages may not have the ability to process your card. Take the opportunity to talk with local artists. You may learn wonderful things about the culture that would be missed if you simply rush to the next destination.
If you?d like to learn more about Native American arts, try the Field Guide to Southwest Indian Arts and Crafts
