Moab is known for many things – Jeeping, biking, river sports and great scenery. However, another distinctive aspect of Moab is art depicting the area and history. Once, pioneers, ranchers and homesteaders found their way to the area. Next came the uranium miners. Today’s Moab is an expanding art district all easily accessible on foot. The galleries and shops feature gifts, crafts and specialty items as well as beautifully handcrafted classic and contemporary Native American jewelry, baskets and rugs. Other shops feature products of local artisans including prints, vases, lamps, gourds turned into unique pieces of art and a variety of gifts and clothing. Many of Moab visitors set aside time from biking and sightseeing to tour the many distinctive shops located in downtown Moab.

The southwestern Native American’s humpbacked flute player, commonly known by the Hopi word Kokopelli, appears on stone, ceramic or plaster as part of a galaxy of ancient characters and symbols. Kokopelli seems to have played a featured role in numerous important events of southwestern Native American life. He participated with costumed shaman figures in tribal rituals. He played his flute for dances in tribal ceremonies. He impregnated women. He participated in birthing scenes. Among ancient rain and water symbols, he played his flute to plead for moisture for his tribe’s corn, beans and squash.