Cherokee Arts and Crafts

The Cherokee practice of maintaining "balance" in life continues in today's high-tech world, partly through the preservation of age-old Cherokee Indian craft traditions that are taught to each new generation. This balance between old and new is found in Cherokee schools and in community workshops, where young Cherokees have the opportunity to learn the art of Cherokee basketry, pottery, beadwork, woodcarving, and other traditional Cherokee crafts.

Basket Weaving
Pottery
Beadwork
Carving

The non-profit Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual was formed in 1946 with the purpose of preserving the Cherokee arts and crafts culture, insuring top quality work and providing a market for native crafted goods. This organization has been a leading force in keeping alive the arts and crafts of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.  Members of the co-op teach workshops to pass on the traditions of the tribe.

Other Cherokee Indian Craft Resources:

Museum of the Cherokee Indian 
Tribally-owned museum retails Cherokee art in museum store. 

Cherokee Artist Directory
Downloadable listings of Cherokee artists in NC, TN and GA. Published by the Museum of the Cherokee Indian in collaboration with the North Carolina Arts Council and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.