Pueblo Indian Arts and Crafts
65Pueblo Indian Arts and Crafts
The Pueblo Indians crafts were – and are – both functional and decorative. Using natural materials that were readily available, the women crafted distinctive designs that are easily recognizable in everything from scarves to Arizona’s flag. The Pueblo Indians enjoyed a less disruptive life than the tribes in the east, so they were able to develop their crafts to a sophisticated artistic level.
Pueblo Indian crafts are exceptionally high quality.
Weaving
The Pueblo Indian women made intricate blankets and rugs that were never quite perfect and left unfinished, for fear of offending the gods. Stationed in from of a wooden frame loom that might be up to 12 feet long, women used a shuttle to weave the fabrics together. These geometrically designed rugs and blankets were initially made from wool, but the women switched to using wool after the Spanish brought sheep to the area.
Baskets
Baskets – dating back 8000 years – aee the oldest of Pueblo Indian crafts. Using various plants – including the yucca leave, juniper bark and willow reeds – Pueblo women used twining and coiling techniques sturdy baskets that could carry heavy loads. Using pounded flowers for dye, the Pueblo women added designs to their baskets which were then hung across their shoulders and backs.
Pottery
All cultures that had to store grain – which was corn for the Pueblo – developed pottery. The Pueblo Indian designs, however, are what distinguishes this craft from that of others. Using a “black on black” firing technique that oxidizes the pottery, they made intricate pieces such as the double –spouted wedding vase.
Kachina Dolls
The Hopi believed that the gods had once live among them, but had left because people didn’t pay enough attention to them. Authentic Kachina dolls are intricate pieces carved from cottonwood root. These religious icons represent mythology figures for the Hopi and were used to teach children about the tribal religion.
Sand Painting
The Navajo Historically, when people became ill, a sand painting – made from sand, dried herbs and other powers – was painted on the hogan floor. When it was dried the sick person would sit in the middle of it until sundown. These brightly color geometric designs are now appreciated by healthy people.
Native Languages: Southwest Native American Art
http://www.native-languages.org/southwestern.htm
Mountain City Elementary School: South West Indian Crafts
