While the sale of Native arts has always been largely a luxury goods market, one pleasing aspect has been that there is such a variety of prices to satisfy disparate buyer incomes. But the other trend, same as three years ago, to be found at Indian Market was increased prices all around. Coupled with the unexciting lack of new designs, this tendency is almost certain to drive away those who usually buy items with pleasure. Yet, it is all too understandable on a marketplace level.

Fact: when the economy is uncertain, most people, including artists, play it safe.