Exhibits at the Heard Museum — a cornerstone of Indigenous arts and culture in the Southwest since 1929 — range from homages to various tribes and time periods to Native American artist spotlights. It also has a Best of the Valley-winning gift shop, which reopened after a massive two-year, $4 million renovation as a sprawling, 8,000-square-foot space that resembles a museum itself. The reimagined Heard Museum Shop features half a dozen rooms dedicated to contemporary and traditional art and artifacts, plus a textile gallery, private viewing room and outdoor sculpture garden. No tawdry tchotchkes here — the shop’s extensive inventory includes authentic pieces ranging from $200 to $55,000 that are purchased directly from artists. “The (shop) has grown to become so much more than just a museum store,” says David M. Roche, the museum’s director and CEO. “It’s a beloved place for visitors and collectors to acquire the best of Southwestern Native American creative practices.”
Squash Blossom Necklace
The Heard Museum Shop is home to hundreds of authentic modern and vintage Native American jewelry pieces, like this 1970s Navajo necklace with intricate silverwork and bold turquoise settings.
Handwoven Basket
Apache basket weavers use willow and devil’s claw fibers to create contrasting colors and geometric patterns. Over time, the white willow rods oxidize and turn a rich caramel color, as seen in this basket from the 1920s.
Silk Scarf
California artist and fashion designer Jamie Okuma creates statement pieces like this gossamer scarf adorned with original artwork inspired by nature, femininity and her Luiseño, Shoshone-Bannock, Wailaki and Okinawan heritage.
Woven Blanket
Fifth-generation Diné tapestry weaver Lynda Teller Pete created this children’s blanket specifically for the Heard Museum Shop. Trained in the traditional Two Grey Hills style (characterized by ornate diamond patterns and natural wool), Pete is internationally recognized for her blankets and rugs.
Pottery Jar
San Ildefonso potter Russell Sanchez uses natural clay, hematite, heishi shells and turquoise cabochons to create plates, jars and bowls inspired by the flora and fauna of his native New Mexico.
