Indigenous Artists Pivot To Instagram To Sell Their Work

Leah Mata, a Northern Chumash artist, has adapted her business model due to crises like the pandemic and climate change. She and other indigenous artists have turned to social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to sell their handmade jewelry. This shift has been necessary due to the labor-intensive nature of their work and the restrictions of the pandemic. Leah's community in New Mexico remains on lockdown, making online sales crucial. The pandemic has permanently altered her business approach, combining fewer in-person shows with online sales.

What prompted Leah Mata to consider alternative ways to sell her jewelry?

• The cancellation of in-person shows due to the pandemic

• A desire to expand her business

• A new partnership with a major retailer

• A personal interest in online marketing

How have indigenous artists like Leah Mata adapted their sales strategies during the pandemic?

• By reducing the prices of their products

• By opening physical stores

• By collaborating with other artists

• By using Instagram to announce product drops

What is a significant challenge in the process of creating handmade jewelry as described in the video?

• The labor-intensive nature of the work

• Setting up an online store

• Competing with mass-produced items

• Finding the right materials

What change in Leah's business model does she foresee as a result of the pandemic?

• A reduction in the variety of products offered

• A focus on international markets

• A permanent increase in online sales

• A complete shift to in-person shows

Besides Instagram, which platform does Leah use for storytelling and connecting with her audience?

• Facebook

• YouTube

• TikTok

• Pinterest