URL: https://www.indianz.com/News/archives/002760.asp

Monday, December 1, 2003

Ed. Note: Please note that the number is 1-888-ART-FAKE.

Artists and consumers concerned about fake Indian arts and crafts have a new resource to tap.

The Indian Arts and Crafts Board, an agency of the Department of Interior, has set up a toll free number to handle inquiries and complaints. People can call 1-888-ART-FAKE, or 1-888-278-3253, to obtain more information or discuss and file complaints about fake goods.

Under the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, first passed in 1990 and amended in 2000, it is illegal to advertise, sell or market goods as "Indian" unless they were produced by a member of a state or federally recognized tribe or a certified Indian artist.

Relevant Links:
The Indian Arts and Crafts Board - http://www.doi.gov/iacb

Related Stories:
FTC investigates fake Alaska Native art (11/04)
Alaska Native art campaign a success (10/09)
Fake arts suits owe survival to strengthened law (3/28)
New arts act clears Congress (10/25)
Tribe works to protect art (10/10)
Fake arts still an issue (08/17)
Fighting forgeries in Indian Country (05/18)

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