Windsor Betts Art Brokerage & Gallery — Attraction in Santa Fe

A unique art experience. We strolled in after a huge vibrant painting caught our eyes. What came next wasn't the typical art experience we have. We were greeted by Eric and Linda who took an interest in learning about us. Eric noted our curiosity in culture and gave us a little cultural and historical tour of the collections on display. A number of things stood out. First, most if not all the art is of local native American culture. What's even more unique is that the pieces are actually produced by world famous artists, some trained in European techniques. So you have the chance to view another through a lens a viewer may be used to seeing making it easier to understand and become engaged. Second, the pieces have been very well described. This is a huge overlook by most galleries as many can often recall how boring it becomes to read the descriptions listed for a piece. These descriptions are fewer in nature, and provide greater depth into the history and culture. Also, all the art is on display from actual owners looking to resell it. So it's interesting to see how much these pieces go for. Worth mentioning, the building in which the pieces are on display is an architectural gem itself with massive logs spanning the spaces, sitting atop of huge wooden pillars. We went into this place to look at some cool stuff. We walked out with a new understanding of the local heritage on which new Mexico is built upon and stunned by the vibrance.

In the picture shown is actually a real Brazilian tribal mask that was utilized for ceremonies and recovered. A unique find, especially for a gallery.

If I could, it is an institution as such I would buy from that understands the background and can conceptualize in such a way to provide meaning and curate a part of history often not told about but quintessential to American history...

I entered Windsor Betts hoping to garner some information on Fritz Scholder as I am in docent training at the Albuquerque Art Museum and want to familiarize myself with his work. After doing research I discovered there were several of his paintings at the brokerage. With no appointment, I had no idea what to expect. A woman wearing a hat (appropriately) was working behind a desk but immediately acknowledged me and welcomed me in. When I told her what I was interested in, she dropped what she was doing and gave me her full attention. She was not only informative, but her enthusiasm for Scholder's work was contagious! I have been in galleries and other establishments of the arts where the brokers or sales force appeared to size me up as to my eligibility to invest. Not so with Jada Griffin. She treated me as an equal, appreciating my inquiries and responding with encouragement on my endeavors and personal insights. Jada even recommended a book for my studies and left me feeling as if I were on top of the art world! As a post script, I did give my mini tour on Fritz Scholder and did so with confidence as well as a personal connection through Jada of his work. Thank you, Jada! ...

I have enjoyed the elegance, beauty, and workmanship of native American arts for many years. I have been to Windsor Betts Art Brokerage several times before moving to Albuquerque and I have also used their very friendly and informative web site to inform myself. I have really enjoyed the experience of looking and witnessing such a magnificent and beautiful collection of art works. I thank Windsoe Betts for providing me with such an opportunity to experience and explore for myself. I had the chance and great pleasure to communicate with Linda and Jonathan via email and telephone calls. Both demonstrated such high level of professionalism, wealth of knowledge, and caring with openness. They promptly responded to all my inquirers and provided follow ups. I enjoyed my interactions with both Linda and Jonathan. Thank you both for being so kind and patient with me. I have recommended Windsor Betts to my friends in California and in Nevada who enjoy and appreciate native American art works. And I will recommend everyone who have an interest in and enjoy native American arts to visit Windsor Betts. The very best...