Although they study a variety of
subjects to achieve their educational goals, many tribal college students have
something in common - unique artistic ability. Their artistry is part of
their cultural identity and remains a passion for many. The American
Indian College Fund highlights student designs in its exclusive collection of
blankets produced by Pendleton Woolen Mills. Proceeds from the sales of
these blankets provide much needed support for these and other worthy American
Indian students attending the nation's tribal colleges.
Three Corn
Maidens by Student Mary Beth Jirón, Isleta Pueblo
The Three Corn Maidens
design tells the story of the Pueblo people's belief that just as the sun
gives life to the corn, the Corn Maidens bring the power of life to the
people.
The blanket measures
66" x 40"
Mary
Beth Jirón is a member of the Isleta Pueblo and a senior at the Institute
of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe. Mary Beth says, "The Three Corn
Maidens idea came from visions I have had. I wanted to tell a story
from our own culture."
Mary Beth's goal is to open a gallery in her pueblo, and to become
established as a painter and sculptor. She was juried to participate
in the prestigious Eitlejorg Indian Market in 2007.
Price $185
Grandeur by Student
Sampson Frank, Diné
The eagle, a symbol of
strength and power, and messenger to the heavens, is a long revered totem
for the Diné. The significance of the eagle inspired student
Sampson Frank to design this beautiful blanket. It features
traditional yet unique depictions of the eagle. The step design in
the center, influenced by the traditional rugs woven by Sampson's
grandmother, is the backdrop for eagle feathers that are used in Diné
ceremonies.
The blanket measures
66" x 40"
Samson
Frank is a student in Liberal Arts/Health Sciences at the Southwestern
Indian Polytechnic Institute. Born and raised on the Navajo
reservation, Sampson is planning to obtain a degree in health sciences and
go into the medical field. He has recently started to seriously
pursue "one of his favorite pastimes." In addition to
charcoal and ink, Sampson also does sculpture, multi-media art, and silk
screens his own t-shirt designs.
Samson
Frank is a student in Liberal Arts/Health Sciences at the Southwestern
Indian Polytechnic Institute. Born and raised on the Navajo
reservation, Sampson is planning to obtain a degree in health sciences and
go into the medical field. He has recently started to seriously
pursue "one of his favorite pastimes." In addition to
charcoal and ink, Sampson also does sculpture, multi-media art, and silk
screens his own t-shirt designs.