Silver Reef Museum will host John Rich, Jr., who will give his presentation, “The Gifts of Spider Woman,” March 26. Rich will discuss Navajo rugs as well as the history of Navajo culture, mythology, and art. He will speak from 10 a.m. until noon and from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.
A glimpse into a Navajo life will show a parallel trail between their art, memories of a traditional lifestyle, Native American symbolism, and the unique beauty of their homeland. Navajos have fond memories of sitting beside and watching their mothers, aunts, and grandmothers clean, card, and spin wool to weave into magnificent textiles. They watched their fathers, uncles, and grandfathers turn sheets of silver and chunks of turquoise into objects of beauty. They remember the timelessness of the before-dawn quiet when they rose to pray to the holy people, and they remember watching the Yeibichai dance on a star-filled night. This people’s memories and experiences draw them both literally and figuratively to their homeland for inspiration, and their arts and crafts are in turn expressions of this heritage. America has its deepest cultural roots in the arts of its Native Americans.
John Rich Jr. has worked to build personal day-to-day relationships with native artists that have developed into a great love for their history, culture, and art. As a buyer for over forty years at the Gift Shop at Jacob Lake Inn, a family business since 1923, his knowledge comes from a lifetime of dealing with Native American artists as friends, not just suppliers or goods for sale. Rich’s understanding has translated into a desire to teach others about native culture and art. He has taught in many situations from small informal groups to speaking at universities.
Silver Reef Museum is located at 1903 Wells Fargo Road in Leeds. RSVP at (435) 879-2254 or here. For more information, contact the museum at (435) 879-2254 or Museum@SilverReef.org, or visit SilverReef.org.
