If you care to contact me, please click here and email me at DancesOnTheWinds@otmail.com

About the Art

Originals: My paintings are done with acrylic paints and I paint on masonite and canvas. My process  starts by preparing the masonite or canvas with seven coats of base. This is a very sacred number to the Cherokee and why I have chosen this to prepare the surface before painting. Then I thin my paints down so I can do what is called a layering process of painting. Most of my paintings will have 30-40 layers of paint before they have been completed. Then when the painting has been completed they are blessed before they are ever taken to a art show or entered into competition.   

Artist's Proofs: In offset reproductions, artist's proofs are additional prints not included in, but of the same quality as, the regular edition. In original prints, artist's proofs are the first prints pulled, which are the truest prints in the edition because the plates and screens have not yet been worn down. Artist's proofs are distinguished by the abbreviation "AP" and are numbered separately.

Edition Size: The total number of prints printed, or pulled, of one particular image. Separate edition sizes are recorded for the signed and numbered prints, artist's proofs and printer's proofs.

Giclees: Giclees, or iris prints as they are sometimes called, offer one of the highest degrees of accuracy and richness of color available in any reproduction technique, Giclees are printed by using inks, acrylics, or oil paints in a highly technical process that prints images onto watercolor papers and canvas surfaces that are acid free and archival.  A result of the marriage of art and modern technology, a giclee faithfully reflects the vibrant color, rich detail and lush texture of the original. Giclees are produced one at a time.  Depending on their size, this intricate printing process can take up to an hour or more for each print.  Afterward, giclees are coated with a protective finish to further assure their longevity.

Limited-Edition Print: A reproduction of an original work of art that is signed and sequentially numbered by the artist. The total number of prints is fixed or limited by the artist or the publisher.

Offset Lithograph: A photomechanical reproduction created by the separation of colors in the original and then the recombining of those colors on a printing press. Offset lithography is very well adapted to color printing and gives a sharp, clean image very close to the original painting.

Open-Edition Print: A reproduction of an original work of art that is sometimes signed by the artist. The number of prints published is not predetermined.

Signed and Numbered: Limited-edition prints that have been signed and sequentially numbered by the artist. The artist's signature is usually found in one of the lower corners of the print and is accompanied by a number that looks like a fraction; the top number indicates the number of the print and the bottom number indicates the total number of prints in the edition.

Tips for Consumers of Native American Indian Arts and Crafts

Collecting American Indian Arts & Crafts 
                               
American Indian art in all forms, has never been more alive and dynamic. It continues to be one of the most gratifying and exciting forms to collect.  American Indian & Cherokee art combines age-old tradition, innovation and talent.  It results in wide varieties of art for all levels of collecting, irrespective of whether you are beginning with a first-time purchase or have been collecting for a number of years. Whichever you do, it is gratifying to know that it supports the continuation of the expressions and livelihood of American Indian artisans and the preservation of this country's only indigenous art. 

These products, influenced by centuries of culture, spiritual and other wise, and history, combine an intrinsic spirit with timeless spiritual appeal.  Whether it is silversmithing, painting, sculpting in many mediums, or the American Indian flute, there is always a place for the beauty that human hands can produce. The interest in and appreciation of the artistry of   American Indians works touching ones soul, has unfortunately been tainted by the resulted in misrepresentations and imports in the marketplace.  

The popularity has also brought in merchandise that is legitimately 
represented as "American Indian Inspired".  This should not be confused with authentic handmade American Indian arts and crafts. It is important to understand that when you purchase the genuine product, you help to preserve the integrity and commitment of today's American Indian artists. 

Today there is a great variety of work being done by American Indian artisans who use different techniques and materials to create products suitable for all levels of collecting.  Since these differences will often be reflected in the price, it is important to be informed about the item you are purchasing. You should first and foremost buy what you like. An artist does not want his/her work to end up in a ‘garage sale’. TerryLee has even talked people out of purchasing his art because he knew it would over extend their spending. For those who choose to invest in the grace and beauty of Indian art, collecting will continue to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. 

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

1.  What are the sources for American Indian Art?  Isn't it better to 
purchase directly from the artist? 

Answer:  There are different ways of acquiring American Indian arts and crafts: buying directly from the artist; from shops and galleries; and/or at special shows and ceremonials.  Everyone's pattern of collecting will be different. The important thing is to purchase what you like and what fits your budget.  And be sure that you receive information on your purchase.

2. Which form of these handmade products is my best investment? 

Answer:  When you are buying American Indian arts and crafts you really are buying pieces of art.  Therefore, your personal taste and budget will guide you to the right choice.  Though it is true that many pieces have appreciated in value across time, first and foremost, you should buy the piece because  you like it.  Today, there is good quality work being done today by many artisans, in different media, styles and price ranges. Collecting art by America's Native artisans is a very personal and exiting for many reasons.  For those who choose to own the grace and beauty of their products, collecting them will be a rewarding experience. 

But for the most part it is just a choice the artist has made whether to paint on either one of these surfaces.

4. What Is "Authentic"?  Is There a Law That Protects Me? 

 The Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990 (P. L. 101-644) prohibits 
misrepresentation of Indian arts and crafts within the United States.  It 
covers all arts and crafts produced after 1935 and is a truth  -in- advertising law.  Under the act, "Indian" is defined as a person who 1.) is an enrolled member of a State or Federally recognized tribe, or 2.) has been certified as an Indian artisan by a governing body of an Indian tribe or national arts organization.
 
For a copy of the law, write or call the Indian Arts and Crafts Board, 
Department of the Interior, MS 4004, 1849 C Street, NW, Washington, DC 
20240.  (202) 208-3773