More than 50 Navajo weavers are expected to gather to show and sell their textiles on Saturday, November 5, 2011 at the Gathering of Weavers: Navajo Weavers Marketplace at the Heard Museum. The event takes place in the enchanting Central Courtyard from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For many Navajo weavers, weaving is not only a source of livelihood, but a way to participate in traditional Navajo culture and community. Techniques and tools are passed from one generation to the next. Many weavers use wool from their own sheep, shearing, cleaning and spinning it by hand. Using natural wool colors, vegetal dyes or brighter commercial yarns, weavers vary their designs and make each rug a unique creation characterized by both beauty and durability. You can learn more about Navajo textile designs by clicking here.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, experienced collector or just looking for a holiday gift for someone special, you won’t want to miss this chance to interact with these artists and enjoy lectures, book signings, music and demonstrations.

A variety of artists will demonstrate from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Curator and author Ann Lane Hedlund will speak at 11 a.m. about her work as a textile curator and her books, including Navajo Weaving in the Late Twentieth Century: Kin, Community, and Collectors.

From noon to 1:30 p.m., hear as Paul Berkowitz, author of The Case of the Indian Trader: Billy Malone and the National Park Service Investigation at Hubbell Trading Post, and Billy Malone, the subject of the book, discuss circumstances that inspired its publication.

Beginning at 1:30 p.m., both authors will sign their respective books.

Visitors to the Marketplace can enjoy Southwest-inspired dishes at The Café at the Heard Museum, including the special fry bread sundae and other desserts.

This event is perfect for first-time buyers, experienced collectors or just those looking for a holiday gift for someone special.

WHEN:           Saturday, November 5, 2010, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.                         

                        Lectures: 11 a.m. and noon .

                        Book signings: 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

                        Demonstrations: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.