IACB Publishes New Brochure "How to Buy Authentic Navajo (Diné) Weavings"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 2, 2017 - WASHINGTON, DC: In celebration of National Native American Heritage Month, the Indian Arts and Crafts Board of the U.S. Department of the Interior announces the release of a new guide to buying authentic Navajo (Diné) weavings.  The consumer protection brochure, How to Buy Authentic Navajo (Diné) Weavings, was created by the Board in collaboration with master weaver and former Board Chairperson Joyce Begay-Foss (Diné), and weaving scholar Dr. Kathy M’Closkey.

The brochure includes information on the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, a federal law enforced by the Board, which prohibits the marketing of art and craftwork as an Indian product if it is not Indian made.  Consumers will also find helpful information regarding the history and development of Navajo (Diné) weavings, as well as buying tips.

“For the Navajo people weaving is not just an art form but a direct connection to our environment and lifeways.  Navajo weavers face competition from imported items.  Unfortunately some consumers prefer to buy a cheaper knock-off of a Native American-designed product,” states Begay-Foss.  “This brochure is very important to educate consumers.”

A circa 1860 “Spider Woman Cross Chief Blanket” from the permanent collection of the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture (MIAC) is featured on the brochure’s cover.  Other outstanding weavings drawn from the Birmingham Museum of Art, Honolulu Museum of Art, and MIAC also complement the publication.