The non-profit Association was formed in 1974 by a group of dealers who knew that cheap imitations and imports were undermining America's only indigenous art form. Headquartered in Albuquerque, IACA now has more than 700 member artists, wholesale and retail dealers, museums and collectors throughout the United States and in five foreign countries. IACA works to promote authentic Native American arts and crafts through public education and through common standards for the industry. IACA's annual wholesale markets feature only handcrafted items produced by Indians with tribal registration. IACA maintains a Buyer's Guide to help buyers locate artists and dealers of authentic arts and crafts.
Consumer awareness is the key to protecting buyers and producers alike.
Buyers should feel free to ask dealers for written verification of the origin of a piece and the processes used in making it. All IACA members must pledge to represent honestly American Indian arts and crafts. Most are only too happy to tell buyers about the artist and his or her tribal affiliation as well as the techniques and contents of a handcrafted Indian work of art. The unique characteristics and meaning of the jewelry, pot or other craft add to its value. If you're a souvenir shopper, perhaps it isn't.