Native America Calling

In October, officials accused three businesses of selling imitation jewelry as authentic Native-made merchandise. L to R- U.S. Attorney for New Mexico Damon Martinez, Indian Arts and Crafts Board Chair Harvey Pratt and lead investigator Nicholas Chavez (Photo: Antonia Gonzales).

Tuesday, February 2, 2016 – Native American Art Fraud

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Fake Native American art is typically made with inferior materials and stolen designs. It can be hard for the untrained eye to detect, but it undercuts the livelihoods and legitimacy of true Native American artists. In October, the FBI charged three non-Natives with violating the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. The sellers allegedly passed off jewelry manufactured in the Philippines as Native American made. Experts estimate Native American art fraud costs authentic artists as much as $1 billion per year. What questions should consumer ask sellers when purchasing jewelry?

Guests:

Gene Billie (Diné) -silversmith and representative for the Native Jewelers Society

Darryl Dean Begay (Navajo) – silversmith and one of the founders of the Native Jewelers Society

Dr. Joe Candillo (Pascua Yaqui Tribe) – artist and owner of Authentic Native American Arts

Break music:  I’M NOT A MASCOT – I’M NOT A STEREOTYPE – I’VE BEEN WATCHING (single song) Michael Bucher (artist)

 Full interview, Indian Arts and Crafts Board Chairman Harvey Pratt (Cheyenne/Arapaho) and Ken Van Wey – program specialist:

 

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