Discover authentic Native American artistry from Coyote’s Game beadwork and crafts.
The Southwest is a treasure trove of culture and significant American artistry, which begs to be preserved. As many people seek to own a part of the Southwestern culture, Coyote’s Game founder Lynne Escue continues to champion Native American artistry by providing highly sought-after jewelry and crafts.
For centuries, the sale of Native American crafts and jewelry relied solely on local customers and the tourist trade. Fast forward to 2019, and the opportunities for business growth have been completely opened up through the internet, allowing potential customers to access the work of Native artists from all over the Southwest and beyond.
In 1999, a time when the internet was truly the next frontier, Escue was setting up a website to sell Native American crafts. Averse to traditional trading post business models, Escue was looking to expand her business beyond regional borders while protecting the integrity of the craft she was providing.
Shop the slideshow by artist:
Yonavea Hawkins (Hasinai/Delaware)
Sharon Trudeau (Canadian Odawa)
Escue spent 8 1/2 years on the Navajo reservation working at the Diné community college, where she developed an appreciation for the traditional crafts of the Navajo people. When it came time for a change, Escue dove headfirst into selling beadwork, pottery, silver, and more from local artists. She eventually decided to specialize in beaded crafts.
“Beadwork is special to many tribes of North America,” Escue says. “It’s a form of art.” Beadwork tells the stories of individual tribes through distinct patterns and color combinations, highlighting their perspectives through design.
Escue uses her business platform to bring beautiful pieces to her customers while also supporting the Native American community. “I try to work with the artists and respect their culture and wishes with the business. I want to protect the integrity of the artist,” she says. Purchases from Coyote’s Game can be acquired with confidence, as each piece lists the artist’s tribe and is guaranteed to be an authentic Native-made craft.
Check out our slideshow above to view unique beadwork available from Coyote’s Game. For more information and to view all available pieces, please visit coyotesgame.com.