How to Shop for Native Art at Eiteljorg Gift Shop Portland

The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, located in Indianapolis, Indiana, is widely recognized for its authentic collections, educational programming, and curated gift shop that celebrates Indigenous creativity across North America. However, there is a common misconception that the Eiteljorg Gift Shop has a physical location in Portland, Oregon. In fact, the Eiteljorg Museum does not operate a storefront in Portland. The museum’s official gift shop is accessible both on-site in Indianapolis and through its online platform at eiteljorg.org/shop. This guide will clarify this important distinction while providing a comprehensive, authoritative tutorial on how to thoughtfully and ethically shop for Native art—whether you’re visiting the museum in person or purchasing through its reputable online store. Understanding the origins, cultural significance, and purchasing ethics behind Native art is essential for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to honor Indigenous creators.

Native American art is not merely decorative—it is a living expression of heritage, spirituality, and resilience. When you purchase authentic Native art, you support tribal economies, preserve cultural traditions, and ensure that Indigenous artists receive fair recognition and compensation. Unfortunately, mass-produced imitations, counterfeit items, and exploitative marketing practices are rampant in the broader marketplace. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the Eiteljorg Gift Shop (online or in-person) with confidence, ensuring your purchases are both meaningful and ethical.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Difference Between the Eiteljorg Museum and Portland

Before beginning your shopping journey, it is critical to clarify a frequent point of confusion: the Eiteljorg Museum is not located in Portland, Oregon. It is situated in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana, at 500 West Washington Street. While Portland is home to vibrant Native communities and several galleries that feature Indigenous art—including the Portland Art Museum’s Native American art wing and independent shops like Native American Art & Gifts—there is no Eiteljorg Gift Shop branch in Oregon. Many online search results mistakenly conflate the two locations due to keyword overlap or misleading advertising.

To avoid confusion, always verify the official website: eiteljorg.org. Any other website claiming to be the “Eiteljorg Gift Shop Portland” is not affiliated with the museum and may not adhere to the same ethical standards. If you are in Portland and wish to purchase Native art, seek out locally owned galleries that work directly with enrolled tribal artists or are certified by the Indian Arts and Crafts Board (IACB).

Step 2: Visit the Official Eiteljorg Gift Shop Website

Once you’ve confirmed you’re accessing the correct platform, navigate to eiteljorg.org/shop. The online store is meticulously curated to reflect the museum’s mission of promoting authentic Native art. The site is organized into intuitive categories: Jewelry, Pottery, Textiles, Sculpture, Books, and Children’s Items. Each product listing includes detailed descriptions, artist bios, tribal affiliations, and materials used.

Use the filters on the left-hand sidebar to narrow your search by category, price range, artist name, or tribal nation. For example, if you’re interested in Navajo silverwork, select “Jewelry” and then filter by “Navajo.” This ensures you’re not overwhelmed by unrelated items and helps you focus on the art forms you’re most drawn to.

Step 3: Research the Artist and Tribal Affiliation

One of the most distinguishing features of the Eiteljorg Gift Shop is its commitment to transparency. Every item includes the artist’s full name, tribal enrollment status, and often a short biography. This is not standard practice across all retailers, making the Eiteljorg platform a trusted source.

When you find an item you like, click on the artist’s name to view their profile. You’ll often find information such as:

• Which tribe they are enrolled in (e.g., Hopi, Cherokee, Zuni)
• Whether they are a member of a federally recognized tribe
• How long they’ve been creating art
• Traditional techniques they use (e.g., coiling, lost-wax casting, beadwork)
• Whether they come from a family of artisans

For example, a piece by artist Darlene K. Kootenay (Blackfeet Nation) may describe how she learned basket weaving from her grandmother using sweetgrass harvested on the reservation. This context transforms the object from a mere commodity into a cultural artifact with deep personal and communal roots.

Step 4: Evaluate Materials and Craftsmanship

Authentic Native art is handmade using traditional and natural materials. Be wary of items labeled as “Native-inspired,” “tribal style,” or “ethnic design,” as these are often machine-made imports from overseas. In contrast, Eiteljorg Gift Shop items are clearly labeled with their materials. Look for terms such as:

• Hand-hammered sterling silver
• Hand-coiled pottery with natural pigments
• Rawhide, sinew, and porcupine quills
• Hand-dyed wool using plant-based dyes
• Native-grown corn husks or cedar bark

Examine product photos closely. Authentic pieces often show slight variations in shape, texture, or color—signs of human craftsmanship. Mass-produced items appear uniform and overly polished, lacking the subtle imperfections that reflect the artist’s hand.

Step 5: Check for the Indian Arts and Crafts Act (IACA) Compliance Label

The Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990 is a federal law that prohibits the misrepresentation of Native art. It requires that any product marketed as “Native American,” “Indian,” or “tribal” must be made by an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop strictly complies with this law.

Every product page includes a statement confirming the artist’s tribal enrollment and adherence to IACA. This is not just a legal requirement—it’s a moral commitment. When you see this label, you can be certain your purchase supports the right people and avoids cultural appropriation.

Step 6: Review Shipping, Returns, and Ethical Policies

Before completing your purchase, review the shop’s shipping and return policies. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop offers free domestic shipping on orders over $75 and uses eco-friendly packaging. Returns are accepted within 30 days if the item is unused and in original condition.

Importantly, the museum does not sell items that are sacred, ceremonial, or restricted under tribal law. For example, you won’t find eagle feathers, certain ceremonial masks, or items used in religious rituals for sale. This reflects deep respect for Indigenous sovereignty and spiritual traditions.

Step 7: Complete Your Purchase with Intention

When you’re ready to check out, consider adding a donation to the museum’s Native Artist Support Fund. This fund provides grants to emerging Indigenous artists, helping them purchase materials, attend art fairs, and develop their careers. Your purchase becomes part of a larger cycle of cultural preservation.

After checkout, you’ll receive a digital receipt and a handwritten thank-you note from the museum’s staff. Many customers keep these notes as mementos of their meaningful transaction. You may also receive a small booklet on the cultural significance of the item you purchased—a thoughtful addition that deepens your connection to the art.

Best Practices

Practice Cultural Humility

Shopping for Native art is not a transaction—it’s a relationship. Approach each purchase with humility and curiosity. Avoid making assumptions about the meaning of symbols, patterns, or colors. For example, a spiral design may represent a water vortex in one tribe and a cosmic journey in another. If you’re unsure, don’t guess. Instead, read the artist’s description or contact the museum for clarification.

Support Living Artists, Not Mass Producers

Never purchase items labeled “Made in China,” “Factory Produced,” or “Tribal Design.” These are not Native art. Even if they look similar, they lack cultural authenticity and contribute to the erasure of Indigenous economies. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop only features work by enrolled tribal artists who create in their own studios or homes. Your support goes directly to them.

Buy What Resonates, Not What Sells

It’s tempting to buy items because they’re trendy or visually appealing. But the most meaningful purchases come from personal connection. Do you admire the rhythm of a Zuni inlay bracelet? Are you moved by the earth tones of a Pueblo pottery vessel? Let your emotional response guide you—not Instagram trends or seasonal sales.

Ask Questions, Even If They Feel Awkward

If you’re unsure whether an item is authentic, ask. The Eiteljorg Museum staff are trained to answer questions about provenance, technique, and cultural context. There are no silly questions when it comes to respecting Indigenous art. In fact, asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your commitment to ethical collecting.

Don’t Rush

Authentic Native art is not meant to be impulse-bought. Take your time. Visit the online shop weekly. Bookmark a few pieces. Return to them after a few days. Often, the item that lingers in your mind is the one that was meant for you. Patience honors both the artist and the tradition.

Share the Story

When you receive your purchase, share its origin. Tell your friends about the artist, the tribe, and the technique. Post a photo on social media with proper credit: “This Zuni squash blossom necklace was made by Lillian Yazzie (Zuni Pueblo) and purchased through the Eiteljorg Museum Gift Shop.” This raises awareness and encourages others to shop ethically.

Respect Sacred Objects

Some art forms are inherently sacred and not meant for sale. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop avoids these entirely, but other retailers may not. Never buy items like medicine bags, prayer feathers, or ceremonial regalia unless you are a member of the tribe and have been given permission. When in doubt, assume it’s sacred and leave it alone.

Tools and Resources

Indian Arts and Crafts Board (IACB) Website

The IACB is the federal agency responsible for enforcing the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. Their website (www.iacb.gov) offers a searchable database of enrolled tribal members who are verified artists. You can cross-reference any artist you find online to confirm their status. The IACB also provides downloadable guides on identifying authentic Native art.

Eiteljorg Museum’s Artist Directory

Within the gift shop’s website, click on “Meet the Artists” to access a comprehensive, searchable directory. Each profile includes photos, interviews, videos of the artist at work, and links to their personal websites or social media. This is invaluable for building long-term relationships with artists whose work you admire.

Native American Art Trust

This nonprofit organization partners with museums and galleries to promote ethical collecting. Their website offers a checklist for buyers: “10 Questions to Ask Before Buying Native Art.” Topics include: “Is the artist enrolled?” “Did they make it themselves?” “Are they paid fairly?”

Books for Deeper Understanding

• Native American Art: A Visual Guide by Dr. Nancy Marie Mithlo
• The Art of the American Indian by William C. Orchard
• Living Traditions: Contemporary Native American Artists by Susan S. Kalcic

These books are available for purchase through the Eiteljorg Gift Shop and provide historical context, regional styles, and profiles of master artists.

Online Communities

Join forums like Reddit’s r/NativeArt or Facebook groups such as “Native American Artists and Collectors.” These communities are filled with knowledgeable members who can help you identify authentic pieces, recommend artists, and warn against fraudulent sellers. Always verify advice with official sources like the Eiteljorg Museum or IACB.

Mobile Apps

Download the “Eiteljorg Museum” app, which includes a virtual tour of the gift shop, artist spotlights, and push notifications for new arrivals. The app also features an augmented reality tool: point your phone at a piece of jewelry or pottery, and the app will display a short video of the artist explaining its creation.

Real Examples

Example 1: Navajo Silver and Turquoise Ring

A customer in Seattle purchased a Navajo silver ring featuring a natural turquoise stone from the Eiteljorg Gift Shop. The product page noted the artist, Robert L. Begay (Navajo Nation), who learned silversmithing from his father in Gallup, New Mexico. The ring was made using traditional stamping tools and hand-set stones. The customer later wrote to the museum, sharing that the ring had been worn daily for three years and had become a family heirloom. They donated a photo of their grandmother wearing it to the museum’s “Stories Behind the Art” exhibit.

Example 2: Hopi Kachina Doll

A teacher in Chicago bought a small Hopi Kachina doll carved from cottonwood root by artist Marcus Lomayestewa. The doll depicted a Rain Kachina, used in ceremonial prayers for water. The teacher used it in a classroom lesson on Indigenous environmental stewardship. Students were asked to write poems from the doll’s perspective. The museum later featured the lesson plan on their educational blog, showing how art can be a bridge to cultural understanding.

Example 3: Ojibwe Birchbark Basket

A couple from Toronto purchased a birchbark basket woven by artist Mary Lou Fournier (Ojibwe, Red Lake Nation). The basket was made using traditional techniques passed down for generations. The couple later traveled to Minnesota to meet Mary Lou at a local art fair, where they learned how the bark is harvested sustainably and dyed with wild onion skins. They now host annual “Art and Earth” workshops in their community, teaching others how to forage and weave responsibly.

Example 4: A Misguided Purchase

One shopper bought a “Native American dreamcatcher” from a tourist shop in Portland, labeled “Handmade by Navajo Artisans.” The item was made in Indonesia with plastic beads and synthetic thread. When they contacted the Eiteljorg Museum for advice, staff helped them identify the red flags: incorrect materials, no artist name, and a generic “tribal” label. They returned the item and used the experience to educate their book club about ethical collecting. This story is now shared on the museum’s blog as a cautionary tale.

FAQs

Is there an Eiteljorg Gift Shop in Portland?

No, the Eiteljorg Museum and its gift shop are located in Indianapolis, Indiana. While Portland has many excellent galleries that sell authentic Native art, the Eiteljorg Gift Shop does not have a physical location there. Always verify the website: eiteljorg.org/shop.

How do I know if Native art is authentic?

Authentic Native art is made by enrolled members of federally recognized tribes using traditional materials and techniques. Look for artist names, tribal affiliations, and IACA compliance labels. Avoid items labeled “inspired by” or “tribal style.”

Can I buy sacred items from the Eiteljorg Gift Shop?

No. The Eiteljorg Museum does not sell sacred or ceremonial objects. These items are protected by tribal law and spiritual tradition. The museum respects Indigenous sovereignty and only offers art meant for public appreciation and collection.

Are the prices at the Eiteljorg Gift Shop higher than other retailers?

Prices reflect the time, skill, and cultural value of handmade art. While some mass-produced items may be cheaper, they do not support Indigenous artists. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop ensures artists receive fair compensation, often 70% or more of the sale price.

Can I request a custom piece?

Yes. Many artists featured in the Eiteljorg Gift Shop accept custom commissions. Contact the museum’s curatorial team via the website to inquire about availability. Custom orders typically take 6–12 weeks and include a detailed contract outlining materials, timeline, and cost.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, the Eiteljorg Gift Shop ships to over 40 countries. International shipping rates are calculated at checkout. Customs duties and taxes are the responsibility of the buyer.

What if I’m not sure what type of Native art to buy?

Start with a small item like a book, postcard, or pin featuring Native art. These are affordable, educational, and help you learn about different styles and tribes. As your knowledge grows, you’ll naturally be drawn to more significant pieces.

How can I support Native artists beyond buying art?

Attend Native art fairs, donate to tribal arts organizations, share artist stories on social media, and advocate for cultural education in schools. Your voice is as powerful as your purchase.

Conclusion

Shopping for Native art is not simply an act of acquisition—it is an act of respect, remembrance, and responsibility. The Eiteljorg Gift Shop, though located in Indianapolis and accessible online, stands as a beacon of ethical collecting in a marketplace often clouded by exploitation and misinformation. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you ensure that your purchases honor the hands, histories, and heritage of Indigenous creators.

Whether you’re drawn to the gleam of a Zuni fetish, the texture of a Hopi basket, or the symbolism of a Cherokee beadwork belt, your choice matters. Each purchase supports a living tradition, sustains a family lineage, and resists cultural erasure. You become not just a buyer, but a guardian of stories that have endured for centuries.

Do not confuse location with legitimacy. Portland may have its own vibrant Native art scene, but the Eiteljorg Gift Shop remains a trusted, transparent, and deeply ethical source for authentic work. Visit eiteljorg.org/shop, learn the names of the artists, understand the materials, and let your heart guide your hand.

When you buy Native art from the Eiteljorg Gift Shop, you don’t just take something home—you become part of a continuing story. And that story, beautifully told and respectfully honored, is one worth being part of.