At the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, where the high desert light filters through cottonwoods and centuries of living history echo in adobe walls, the Morningtalk Indian Shop honors the handcrafted arts of its people. Located within the ancient village of Taos Pueblo, this small yet respected gallery provides visitors with a gateway into Native American artistry, storytelling, and tradition.
Established in the early 1970s by artist and drum maker Jimmy Morningtalk, the shop was one of the first Native-owned galleries within the Pueblo, which has been inhabited for over 1,000 years. Today, Morningtalk is known for its high-quality, handcrafted Native American arts and crafts, including traditional drums, silver and turquoise jewelry, paintings and sculptures. Each piece is made with intention, rooted in the cultural knowledge of the Pueblo and the broader Native Southwest.
The walls are lined with vibrant canvases and delicately strung beadwork. Hand-carved drums exude quiet strength. These are not mass-produced souvenirs; they are heirlooms in waiting—each crafted by local and regional Native artists, and selected for authenticity and artistic merit.
Just outside, Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historic Landmark, rises in its multi-storied adobe architecture. This living village, set against a backdrop of blue skies and mountains, is a cultural experience in itself. The Pueblo is open to the public during much of the year (though closed during ceremonies and winter months). Visitors are encouraged to explore respectfully, following photography and access guidelines.