If you’ve never been, Indigenous Craft Gallery is one of those places that makes you feel proud of our city’s creative spirit. They’ve been in their current spot at 1609 Madison Road for five years now, but the gallery has been part of Cincinnati’s art scene since 2006. Their current location—a bright, open space with high ceilings and big windows on Madison Avenue—is the perfect backdrop for showcasing their incredible collection. It’s just three-quarters of a mile from their original spot, so it still feels connected to its roots while being in the heart of East Walnut Hills’ charming shopping district.
Indigenous is the vision of Diane, the gallery’s founder and owner. Before opening Indigenous, she spent 17 years as a gallery and regional manager for a state organization with retail spaces. When that organization closed, it created the perfect opportunity for her to expand upon and improve the concept by launching her own contemporary craft gallery. Now, with 18 years of dedication to running the business, fostering relationships with artists, and connecting with patrons, Indigenous has cemented itself as a vital part of Cincinnati’s art scene—check out this video.
The gallery features handmade works from more than 150 artists, with a focus on local and regional creators. But don’t let that fool you—they also have unique pieces from across the U.S. The range of art here is astounding: hot-worked glass, pottery, jewelry, fiber arts, woodcraft, mosaics, garden art, and so much more. Everything is made by hand, which means every item has a story. You can feel the love and skill that goes into each piece. Diane curates the collection with careful consideration, selecting pieces based on creativity, craftsmanship, marketability, and customer requests. Local artists always have a strong advantage, and new works are chosen to bring something fresh and unique to the gallery.
One of my favorite things about Indigenous is how it bridges the gap between traditional methods and contemporary design. It’s like stepping into a modern version of the art-and-craft tradition. Every visit is an opportunity to discover something new. This year alone, they’ve introduced works from artists like Rebecca Loomis, Jeannine Kenyon, Anne Porter-Elliot, and so many others. It’s always exciting to see the fresh talent they bring in.
What sets Indigenous apart from other galleries in Cincinnati is its commitment to exclusively handmade arts, crafts, and jewelry from U.S.-based makers, with a strong emphasis on local artists. The relaxed atmosphere and eclectic mix of designs ensure there’s something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a special gift, a unique piece to brighten your home, or just a little inspiration, Indigenous is worth a visit. It feels both like an art gallery and a cozy neighborhood shop. You can pop in and lose track of time just exploring all the beautiful things they have to offer.
So, if you’re in East Walnut Hills, swing by Indigenous Craft Gallery. It’s a great way to connect with Cincinnati’s vibrant artistic community and maybe even take home a piece of it. Who knows? You might find something that speaks to you and lets you carry a bit of that creative magic into your own space.
See more insights from your neighborhood guide, Kyle Sticklen.
