Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian — Attraction in Santa Fe

The wheelwright museum, is an interesting place. It's owned by native Americans, and as such has a tax exemption, if you go to the lower level, there's something called the case trading Post, the case traded post has a wide variety of elegant Indian items, some of them knew some of them resale, but the beautiful part it is that everything is truly authentic, and has a pedigree, so you know you're getting the real deal, but best of all, if you're going to spend some significant money, there is no state tax, so the ability to save 7 to 8%, on $1,000 item, is particularly attractive, they have literally everything they've got pottery they've got Julie, they've got some things that I've had that have increased in value, because they're one of a kind items, if you're going to buy something, that's native American, I would think that this should be at least the number one place on your list, to look for gifts, and or collectibles, they do the same thing, that other stores. Stores do they put the price down so you have to ask to see the item to determine the price, I would prefer, that that game will be set aside, and everything would be just clearly marked, and over the years I've amassed a six-figure collection, and I've bought stuff here, and have been very pleased, and sometimes I find things, that are being resold, that are underpriced by as much as 50% over what I would normally expect to find someplace else, the highest priced item that I personally purchased was around $600 and I was delighted, it was a piece that easily was worth twice. That amount .. I said to the manager, I said this is worth significantly more, he said well. The person who owns it is happy with what they're disposing of it, I asked her to call him and they said yes so I bought it, obviously with approval of my wife at that time, it's one of my most charged pieces, it can contain lone...

Museum Hill, on the outskirts of the city, is replete with museums and offers a 360 degree view. The Wheelwright is small but always has wonderful exhibits, usually of contemporary artists, and isn't overwhelming. The current exhibit of painting and pictures composed of tiny, tiny glass beads by a contemporary artist are truly remarkable as well as humorous. The additional defined exhibit area that presents the history of Southwest Native American jewelry making from its origins to today is an education and provides the opportunity to see wonderful examples of work from many of the finest contemporary jewelers. As an added plus, you can see and try on some of their museum quality work that is for sale in the charming and authentic Case Trading Post on the lower level. The salespeople are very patient and very knowledgeable. This will help you prepare to judge what's available in the glitzy galleries in downtown Santa Fe. Check the website for lectures and workshops offered by experts as well as...

What a wonderful museum! A stunning exhibit by Rose B. Simpson and whoever did the lighting for her pieces should be nominated (and subsequently win) an award! The commentary by Bob Haozous was poignant without descending into cynicism and nihilism (the same could be said of Rose!) don’t miss their video interviews - definitely watch them before you go through the museum as it adds so much context and character to their works. Definitely hit the trading post to support the local artists and the museum as they have some great pieces, books, etc... for reasonable prices. The irony of buying something is not lost on me given the character of the exhibits but this place is what markets should aspire to support - vote with your money and your feet to spread the vital messages this museum conveys, to support their fabulous permanent jewelry collection, and to learn and experience contemporary culture that deserves...