Gilbert Begay

Albuquerque, NM   One of Gilbert Begay’s handwoven bags, probably similar in design to the one above  has taken top honors at the New Mexico State Fair.  An ecstatic Gilbert posted on Facebook tonight  “I won First Place on my Handwoven bag and Second Place on my Navajo Sash Belt….. Bah Hozho Shi Dine’e!!!! For those who own my handwoven bags…. remember… they are Award Winning!! Cherish them… Weave in Beauty… I am very Happy… Enjoy your Evening….”   

Gilbert will also be entering some of his weaving at the upcoming Friends of Hubbell Native American Arts Auction.  His prizewinning bag is for sale through the New Mexico State Fair at $160, but watch out for the deep fried treats if you try to wear it home!   Gilbert has developed a great niche market for his small bags and it is really gratifying to see them getting this kind of recognition. 

Gilbert is from Crownpoint, New Mexico and learned to weave from his grandmother.  He works for Safeway in Farmington, NM and weaves prodigiously when he is not on his day job . 

I hope to see Gilbert at the Crownpoint Rug Auction tomorrow evening and for sure at next week’s Hubbell event.  Congratulations, Gilbert!

Hagoshíí (so long for now)

Mary Walker

GPS:  I’m headed for Crownpoint tomorrow and to Moab, Utah on Saturday for the Canyonlands Natural History Navajo Rug Auction.  Road trip!