American Indian Culture Fair: A Report From The Field.
As predicted several days ago, Neighbor Roy & I went to the American Indian Culture Fair today (Saturday). If you didn’t go to day, this events continues tomorrow (Sunday).
Early Saturday Morning started out with the first hot air balloon I have seen this season as it floats over Neighbor Mike’s home just to the north of our viewing deck. This will go on until the air gets too hot to allow lift – probably late April or early May.
This event is held at the Red Hills Visitors Center of Saguaro National Park (West). It was well attended. Here are a few of the exhibitors we encountered.
Here is the Master Navajo Flute Maker. We heard a demonstration of the sound these fine instruments produce. Stunningly beautiful.
Hubbell Trading Post Rugs. Brenda (left) is a master weaver. At the Hubbell Rug Show, she was particularly authoritative regarding the quality and value of Navajo rugs. So authoritative that Neighbor Roy bought a fine rug from her to add to his extensive collection.
Tohono O’odham Basket Weaver Elizabeth Jose. While Neighbor Roy got a Navajo rug from the Hubbell Trading Post, I got something far more valuable. Permission to conduct an on-camera interview with Ms. Elizabeth.
And, for me, the Pièce de résistance. An autographed CD by Navajo singer-songwriter Kristel Augustine. Eat your heart out, Tucson. Have you ever heard the National Anthem of the United States sung in Navajo? Didn’t think so.