Work room, Indian building, Albuquerque, New Mexico c. 1928

This print depicts a Navajo work room in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The artist is anonymous, but the image highlights the handcrafting of textiles and the use of natural materials. Note the open structure, suggesting the weavers work collectively, sharing knowledge. The weavers use looms constructed from wood, and we see piles of yarn, most likely wool, in its raw state. These textiles, made with skill and patience, are part of a long lineage of weaving traditions in Navajo culture. These rugs were made for sale, for the tourist trade, and reflect the intersection of Indigenous craft and the burgeoning market economy. Consider the labor involved in each piece. The act of weaving is not just about producing a functional object; it is a cultural practice, a form of storytelling, a way of life. By focusing on the materials, processes, and context, we can appreciate the full meaning of the artwork, bridging any perceived gap between fine art and craft.