Sho-Ban Tribal Enterprises promote beadwork at Gathering of Nations
Tribal Enterprises staff Tori Dugger, Mitzi Sabori and Nature Ariwite.
By ROSELYNN YAZZIE
Sho-Ban News
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Enterprise were vendors at the Indian Traders Market selling a variety of beaded goods and handmade crafts made by tribal member artists.
Enterprise’s, Mitzi Sabori, explained they have come to Gathering of Nations to sell for the last 15 years to help promote the tribes and beadwork. Other large Native gatherings they attend are the Indian National Finals Rodeo and the National Indian Gaming Association.
Beadwork inventory is purchased from tribal members during beadwork buying days at the Blue Corner Store by Manager Curtis Suetopka.
They brought moccasins, necklaces, braid ties, card holders, coin purses, men’s wallets, leather belts, keychains, and earrings.
Moccasins were the most popular item and were almost sold out by Saturday evening.
Sabori said people enjoy Sho-Ban beadwork and it’s noticeable when they bring it out, people notice the smell of the freshly tanned hides.
“We had a lot of compliments regarding our tribal members’ work with the tanned hides; how well they’re cut and made. We’re really famous for our beadwork because the beadwork’s nice and solid,” she said.
Some customers pull out their Sho-Ban-made wallets, cardholders, and moccasins they’ve had for years that have stood the test of time.
“It’s a really good compliment to see that,” said Sabori. “I’m really proud of what we do.”
She wants beadworkers to know, “The quality you guys do is so awesome, with all the compliments we get from our customers. You know, we really appreciate what you do and keep up the good work. Thank you, guys.”
