Hat c. 1910 - 1940

Natinixwe, who was Hupa, made this woven hat out of plant fiber, but it is impossible to know exactly when. When I look at this hat, I think about the way the artist has carefully built up its form using a coiling technique, patiently adding one layer at a time. The natural shades of brown and tan are beautiful on their own, but the added geometric shapes in dark brown really draw the eye. These shapes aren't just decoration, the way they're woven into the hat feels like they're telling a story, or maybe even mapping out a landscape. I love the precision and attention to detail that has gone into making this hat. It reminds me of the work of Anni Albers, who explored the possibilities of weaving as a fine art form. Like Albers, Natinixwe embraces the material and process of their craft, creating a work that is both functional and beautiful. It's a reminder that art can be found in the everyday objects that surround us.