Art with Spirituality
(Used with permission)

The second indication is when you are ushered into the gallery- highly polished floors, warm earth tones of terracotta for the walls, muted lighting, throws on the ample sofas, a rugged stone fireplace and everywhere, decorative figures, wall hangings and pictures - all united by the fact that they represent some of the finest examples of authentic Native American art this side of the Atlantic.

To label the look 'ethnic' does not reflect the true provenance of the items on display, many of which are for sale by Sharon and Barry, who have set up a company, Native Arts Trading, to market them. These handmade items of Native American art are far more than mere decorative objects. They embody the culture, beliefs and legends of many tribes, including the Hopi, Navajo, Zuni, Chippewa, Apache, Sioux, Blackfeet and Cree, .etc

You could buy a Kachina, medicine bag or breastplate purely as adornment for your conservatory or living room, or simply because it matches your drapes.  But to do that would be to miss the point, the 'added value' of the pieces, which painstakingly crafted, reflect centuries of deep seated culture and spirituality.  Native American art is currently enjoying a revival, thanks to the endeavors of people like Sharon and Barry in Scotland, and, in America,  Navajo tribesmen such as Jerry Lefthand and Dan 'Bert' Yazzie.

Sharon and Barry met in the Isle of Man. Texas-born Sharon, has Indian Blood (part Cherokee). Barry was born in England but lived in Seattle for many years from the age of eight.  Their backgrounds may be quite different, but they share a love of discovery, of self-development, and of Native American art & culture.