American treasures

The Gilcrease Museum store reflects art of Oklahoma and the American West.

Tulsa’s Gilcrease Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of American West and Native American art and artifacts. Its mission is to bring art, history and people together to research, discover, enjoy and understand the diverse heritage of the Americas.

Tucked just inside its main entrance is the Gilcrease Museum Store, where out-of-towners and locals alike can find souvenirs and reproduced works that echo the museum’s extensive collections and current exhibitions.

“We call ourselves ‘The Museum of the Americas,’” says Store Manager Melanie Rosencutter. “We have a lot of Native American art and artifacts in our museum’s collections, but we also have a huge collection of American art and historical items and documents, as well as South American and some Canadian Inuit items. We try to keep that in mind when we are buying things for the store.”

The shop stocks a variety of handmade jewelry that represents the Navajo, Zuni, Hopi and Santo Domingo tribes. The natural stones of turquoise, lapis, onyx, coral and oyster shell can be found in the store’s showcases, which Rosencutter says are the biggest attraction for both out-of-town and local shoppers.

The store also displays a selection of reproduced bronze sculptures from the museum’s permanent exhibits. The pieces are rendered from the original works of 19th and 20th century sculptors, such as Frederic Remington and Charles Russell.

Museum- and area-centric books, a variety of kids’ toys, Oklahoma-themed souvenirs and artwork from local artists also can be found among the store’s displays year-round.

“Everything we carry in the museum store is reflective of our collection and the museum’s mission,” Rosencutter says. “We see it as an opportunity to share what we know with people.”

Zapotec weavings

Handmade and one-of-a-kind, these wool rugs are woven with a foot loom in Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca. Choose from coasters, place mats and rugs; all in varying styles. $12-$460.

Gilcrease T-shirts

These T-shirts are a popular takeaway for locals and tourists alike. Men’s and women’s sizes are available. $16.95.

“Route 66: The Mother Road” by Michael Wallis

A celebration of America’s Main Street, Wallis’ book revisits the people and places that made Route 66 an American icon while uncovering new treasures. $23.99.

Western-themed toys

Reproduction toy firearms, bows and arrows, spears, sheriff badges and cowboy hats make great souvenirs and gifts for the kids. $4-$15.

Squash blossom necklace

Made with Kingman turquoise and sterling silver, this necklace is a classic Navajo design, handmade by self-taught silversmiths and Navajo artists Everett and Mary Teller. $2,695.95.

“Treasures of Gilcrease” book

Compiled by the museum’s curators, this book features selections from the museum’s permanent collection of American West and Native American artwork. $39.95.

Oklahoma-themed products

From tea towels, pillows and table trays to ornaments and cutting boards, the museum store offers an assortment of state-themed goodies and souvenirs. $6-$99.

by The Gilcrease Museum store reflects art of Oklahoma and the American West.