Weaving in Beauty

A Klagetoh Red Storm Pattern Variant by 21 year old weaver Calvin Toney

Window Rock, AZ Our class got started with their weaving today and we took some time out this afternoon to take a trip to Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site, which is about 28 miles west of here in Ganado, Arizona.  The site was sold to the National Park Service by Dorothy Smith Hubbell in 1967 and serves as a living record of the work started here by J.L. Hubbell in 1876.   Current trader Steve Pickle is encouraging weavers to develop their own distinctive design styles and was excited to show us the latest piece that he’s purchased from 21 year old weaver Calvin Toney.   Calvin’s design is done in a Klagetoh Red color scheme, which uses a gray background with red design elements.  The composition is a variation on the Storm Pattern layout using stylized whirling logs and incorporating Spiderwoman crosses.  The rug is 48″x77″ and is priced at $3500 or a little over $136 a square foot.  I’m guessing that Calvin’s work won’t stay at this price point.  I’m going to try to arrange a Meet the Weaver interview with Calvin for an upcoming post.

Ranger Tina Lowe treated us to a tour of the Hubbell home, talking about the Hubbell family and the enormous collection of art at the site.  In his lifetime, J.L. Hubbell hosted many noted artists such as E. A Burbank and Maynard Dixon.  Some of the artists stayed for years.  In exchange, Hubbell requested art in lieu of any cash payment.   Every time I visit the home, I silently thank Dorothy and Roman Hubbell for their generosity and foresight in arranging for the Park Service to preserve and continue this special place.

Tomorrow, we’re headed to Sanders, AZ for a visit with the Burnham family at R.B. Burnham and Co. Trading Post.

Hagoshíí (so long for now)

Mary Walker