OUR STORY

In 2014, Founder, Callan Schanz, embarked on a journey to Peru to study indigenous Shipibo medicine, which marked the beginning of his travels around the country. He learned from shamans in the Amazon basin and forged meaningful connections with local artists and artisans who have since become dear friends. Originally there for his own personal desire for growth and healing, the friendships he forged inspired his desire to share the magnificence of this work here in the United States.

El Cocodrilo Negro is the culmination of a lot of love, learning, travel, and maintaining close relationships with the artists we work with, so that their voices and visions are properly showcased here. What sets us apart is the deep connection and bond we share with these artists, a testament to the dedication of nurturing their talents.
Our gallery serves as a global marketplace, uniting individuals who contribute to a community of energy aimed at transformative change. We do this while respecting indigenous artists, their lands, communities, and cultural heritage, and preserving traditional medicines and rituals.

We take pride in curating the finest art and exclusively practicing fair trade, ensuring the well-being of tribal communities.

Our artists are deeply rooted in their indigenous heritage, possessing a unique connection with the natural world and the spirits that inhabit it. This connection is beautifully reflected in their art, inspired by the rainforest spirits and translating sung prayers into intricate visual patterns.

El Cocodrilo Negro is more than a gallery; it's a sanctuary of sacred art, dedicated to the ancient mission of healing through the sacred medicine of the Amazon rainforest. We are further committed to respect and celebrate indigenous artists, their communities, and cultural heritage while preserving traditional medicines and rituals.

Thank you for stopping by!

Please reach out with questions and to book your viewing.