Jim Wheatley Standing Bear

Dakota S.W. Traders is all about family. My name is Jim Wheatley Standing Bear. Being raised among the diverse Native American people in Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico I grew up admiring the strong values and work ethic of the Native American people. As I have researched my own Native American ancestry it has strengthened me and humbled me. To be part of a culture that is so committed to continuing the teachings and artistry of their ancestors even after times of immense strife is a great honor. My wife Sherry Yellow Hawk and I were married in May of 1989. On our honeymoon, a trip to the Navajo reservation Sherry too, began a life long love for the Native American people, their culture, and their exquisite craftsmanship. After filling our home with wonderful Native American pieces, friends and family began to ask us to purchase items for them. After word spread, we could not keep up with all the special orders. Dakota S.W. Traders was established in May 2003 as a way to share these authentic Native American items. We have taken many trips during the last 15 years traveling to the Navajo and Hopi Reservations. We also visit many Pueblo People such as the Acoma, San Felipe, Laguna, Santo Domingo, Zuni, and Isleta. It is our desire to know the artists themselves as well as their work.