More than 80 weavings tell the story of Navajo history with vibrant colors and experimental design techniques
Unidentified artist, Navajo, Womans Transitional Chief Blanket, 18801890, Handspun wool, three-ply commercial yard, indigo, natural colored wool, aniline dyes, Collection of Carol Ann Mackay.
ST. PETERSBURG, FLA
.- Bold diamond shapes, dominant stripes, and eye-dazzling zigzags in brilliant colors are just some of the design elements seen in the stunning artistry of Navajo textile art starting from the nineteenth century.
In the new special exhibition, Color Riot! How Color Changed Navajo Textiles, individualism and a flair for experimentation of Navajo weavers are vividly expressed in textiles from the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century to today. During this time, weavers acquired new materials, such as vibrant aniline dyes and complex Germantown yarns. These colors, combined with examples of the design system of Hispanic textiles, touched off experiments with color and design in Navajo weaving that were unprecedented.