This past Sunday, I was giving a talk on Navajo Weavings at the Sorrel Sky Gallery in Santa Fe on the last day of the 100th Indian Market. It was a big week for Native American arts as the Gallup Ceremonial celebrated its 100th Anniversary!
Anthony Tallboy and Family
After my talk, when we were putting away the chairs, I noticed one woman who was sitting in the back row. She hadn't moved and was looking around the room. I asked her how she was doing, and she said, "I'm from New York City, and I had never seen any American Indian art before last week. I went with my daughter to Gallup and then came here to do all the galleries, shows, and booths.
"I cannot believe that I am as old as I am and had no idea of the talent and artistry these Native people have. After listening to your talk and visiting with all of these artists, I am embarrassed. I can't wait to come next year!"
It made me think that I take it for granted when I am in the business and spend a lot of time around "these artists" and the galleries and dealers in the Southwest. It doesn't seem strange to see bolo ties and turquoise necklaces daily. People in the Southwest often decorate their homes with Katsinas, Navajo weavings, and Pueblo pottery. I get used to it and don't think much about it being that unique.
What she said made me realize what a small part of our industry's total art and jewelry market represents in this country and the world. And yet, I don't believe there is any better anywhere in hand-crafted work. The finest Native artists can stand with anyone.
These two weeks are a tribute to the beauty and depth of authentic Native American Art.
And one of the most exciting events of this week was seeing Anthony Tallboy, a weaver and a friend of over thirty years, winning his first Blue Ribbon at the Gallup Ceremonial. Anthony, a Diné Medicine Man, uses his weaving to relax and take the stress out of the work of being a healer. He explained that he takes on some of their illness or mental issues when he heals someone in a ceremony. He must take a break to cleanse himself, so he weaves. His mom taught him how to weave as a small boy, and he continually gets better. He is developing a reputation for large weavings. The Storm pattern he made for the Ceremonial took him almost nine months, with many breaks during the work.
He didn't know I would enter it for him when we bought it from him. But I had to call and get his Navajo Census Number.
"Why?" he asked.
"I'm entering your rug in the Ceremonial," I replied.
"Really?" he asked. "I have never had a rug entered."
"Well," I said, "this is a great rug, and it's going to win a ribbon, and you will get a check, but I can't enter it without your number."
He had to look it up, but he found it, and it all worked out.
He is a talented artist who lives a traditional life. He is a great son to his mother, and his sisters believe he can walk on water! We are proud of him and thankful we can show his work.
