Navajo Weaving: Exploring Tradition and Technique with Marilou Schultz

Delve into the captivating world of Navajo weaving with this immersive four-day course led by acclaimed Navajo weaver Marilou Schultz at the Rochester Folk Art Guild. Rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the Navajo people, Navajo weaving, or Dine weaving, is renowned worldwide for its distinctive designs and techniques utilizing natural and dyed handspun wool.

Under Marilou's expert guidance, participants will embark on a journey of discovery, gaining insights into the cultural significance and technical intricacies of this revered art form.Participants will weave a small rug on an upright loom. Traditional preparations of wool--carding, spinning and dyeing--will be discussed when time permits. The Navajo culture, history of rugs, and way of life will be included in the discussions during the instruction. All experience levels are welcome in this class.

Artist Information:

Marilou Schultz brings a wealth of experience and heritage to her role as instructor. Hailing from Leupp, Arizona, located on the Navajo reservation, Marilou is deeply connected to her cultural roots as a member of the Tabaaha and Tsi’naajinii clans. She draws inspiration from over four generations of weavers in her family, learning the art of weaving from her mother and grandmother. Marilou's dedication to preserving and advancing the legacy of Navajo weaving is evident in her remarkable body of work, which has been exhibited in prestigious venues across the globe.

Marilou's artistic achievements have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including the Santa Fe Indian Market Excellence in Weaving Award, the Heard Museum Indian Fair and Market's Best of Division Award, and the Conrad House Special Award. Her work is not only celebrated within the Native American community but also within the broader art world, as evidenced by her inclusion in Who's Who in American Art and Who's Who of American Women.

Course Outline:

Wednesday Oct 9:

• Introduction to the Class & Materials
• Overview of Tools and Equipment
• Discussion on Designs, Colors, and Planning
• Start the Weaving Process
• Welcome dinner with Marilou

Thursday Oct 10:

• Continuation of Weaving Projects
• Troubleshooting Warp Spacing and Gatherings
• Techniques for Even Weaving
• Introduction to Weaving Strips with Interlocks for Vertical Lines
• Optional Challenge: Working with Diagonals

Friday Oct 11:

• Progress Check on Weaving Projects
• Q&A Session and Problem-Solving
• Continued Weaving with Individual Support

Saturday Oct 12:

• Participant Work Review
• Advanced Weaving Techniques Demonstration
• Problem-Solving Session on Dips and Hills in Weavings
• Demonstration: Finishing a Rug and Removing it from the Loom

Sunday Oct 13:

• OPTIONAL- Public lecture by Marilou on her work

Join us for an unforgettable experience as we explore the artistry and cultural heritage of Navajo weaving with Marilou Schultz. Limited spots available, reserve yours today!

Note: Warp will be prepared in advance and attached to the loom prior to the start of the class.

Pricing Information:

• Commuter Package: $800
• 4-night Stay: $1,050
• 5-night Stay: $1,125

Early Bird Discount: Register before September 1st and receive $100 off the above prices.

BIPOC Discount: In our commitment to equity and inclusion, all self-identifying BIPOC students are eligible for a $200 discount on course fees.

Package Inclusions: All course fees, materials, lunches, snacks each day, and a welcome dinner on Wednesday night are included. Overnight packages cover lodging fees and breakfast each day. Packages do NOT include dinner Thursday-Saturday.

Materials: Materials fees are included in the ticket price. Materials include: Pre-warped loom (about 20” high by 15”), Dowels, warp, yarn, and rope plus a finishing needle.

Accommodation: All housing is shared, dormitory-style bedrooms, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among participants. More information on our housing is available on our website: https://www.folkartguild.org/retreat-center/

What to bring: Students will bring the following supplies to class: weaving batten and weaving comb (we will provide sources to purchase these), Scissors and a measuring tape, and pillow for sitting

Have questions? Feel free to contact us at programs@folkartguild.org