Indian Motorcycle, based out of Spirit Lake, Iowa, recently re-teamed with SWAIA and Santa Fe Indian Market, continuing a collaboration that has brought Native American artists into the motorcycle world.
The motorcycle company worked with 10 artists to create unique patches that were offered at Santa Fe Indian Market. The project is titled Roots & Roads Project and only 100 patches of each design were created, each selling for $40. All proceeds from the patches went directly to SWAIA. The artists who contributed to the project were Patricia Michaels (Taos Pueblo), Ashley Browning (Pojoaque/Santa Clara Pueblo), Giovanni Benally (Navajo Nation), Odo Ishkiin (Apache/Shishone), Brooklyn Miller (Wichita/Camanche), Randi Nelson (Bonaparte First Nation), Camryn Growing Thunder (Fort Peck Assiniboine/Sioux (Dakota)), Emil Her Many Horses (Oglala Lakota), Bazille Owen Reese (Ho Chunk Nation of Wisconsin), Kindra Swafford (Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma) and Hayden Haynes (Seneca Nation).
Randi Nelson (Bonaparte First Nation) with one of two riding jackets offered during Santa Fe Indian Market.
In addition to the patches, Indian Motorcycle also offered two riding jackets with all 10 patches, and additional embellishments from other artists, at the Santa Fe Indian Market gala. Again, the proceeds benefited the arts organization.
The patches and jackets followed an equally impressive partnership in 2024, when Indian Motorcycle partnered with Santa Fe Indian Market artists Kenneth Johnson and Cody Sanderson, who helped design a custom motorcycle that was auctioned off during the SWAIA gala. The custom 2025 Scout Bobber sold for more than $80,000.
Left: Indian Motorcycle patch made by Randi Nelson (Bonaparte First Nation). Right: Indian Motorcycle patch that benefits SWAIA.
“At Indian Motorcycle, we are inspired by our rich history and iconic brand legacy as we work to engage the next generation of riders,” says Micki Dirtzu, community engagement manager at Indian Motorcycle. “Our partnership with the Southwest Association of Indian Arts (SWAIA) brings this to life by celebrating the origins of Native artistry while supporting its evolution. This year’s Roots & Roads Project demonstrates the power of collaboration and a shared commitment to honor the past and shape the future.”
Remaining patches from the Roots & Roads Project are still available. Scan the QR code on this page to learn more. —
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