March 17, 2005. Timely through May 1, 2005.
For more information, call 1-800-422-8975, ext. 130. Media photo provided below.

Cortez, Colorado
Today's Native American potters, weavers, jewelers, painters, and sculptors are creating innovative art with a deep awareness of their ancient cultural and artistic origins. Encouraged by traders, collectors, and entrepreneurs, Native American artists have built upon their ancient roots to create new standards of excellence. Join Crow Canyon Archaeological Center, and scholars Dr. Jerry Brody and Dr. Tessie Naranjo, along with Native American artists, traders and others, on a week-long exploration into the fascinating world of Art and Archaeology of Native American New Mexico.

Beginning on Sunday, July 10, and ending on Sunday, July 17, 2005, this learning adventure takes participants into the world of Native American artists in Albuquerque, Zuni Pueblo, Santa Clara Pueblo, Laguna Pueblo, Santa Fe, and other towns and villages in New Mexico. Meet artists in their homes and studios and watch as they shape precious stones and metals into exquisite jewelry, form local clays into beautiful pottery, and weave finely spun wool into delicate tapestries. Learn their views on the creative process and how their work expresses, and occasionally departs from, the long traditions they carry forward.

Examine rock art panels, including inscriptions by early Spanish explorers at El Morro National Monument while learning about the archaeological, cultural, and artistic influence Spanish and European colonists had on indigenous art styles. Visit the magnificent archaeological sites at Bandelier National Monument, ancestral home of the people who today live at the nearby pueblos. Tour the ancient Cerrillos mines, long known as an important source of turquoise for the Southwest people for at least a thousand years.

Dr. Jerry Brody is professor emeritus of art and art history at the University of New Mexico, and former director of the university's Maxwell Museum of Anthropology. Jerry is passionate about American Indian art and is the author of numerous books. His endearing sense of humor and rich knowledge of archaeology and art history have made him a favorite Crow Canyon scholar.

Dr. Tessie Naranjo, a sociologist and potter from Santa Clara Pueblo, joins us during the week. A distinguished scholar, she lends a unique insight into the world of Native American artisans. In addition, noted potter Michael Kanteena, award-winning jeweler Veronica Poblano, and mosaic jeweler Angie Owen will join the group.

The cost of the exploration is $2,195 for shared accommodations. A single supplement is available. The price includes Crow Canyon tuition, most meals, lodging, and local transportation. Visits to the Eight Northern Indian Pueblos Arts and Crafts Show, the Museum of Indian Arts and Cultures, private homes of collectors and art dealers, and Robert Nicholas Gallery in Santa Fe are also included.

Crow Canyon is a not-for-profit organization offering excavation, workshop, and travel programs in the greater Southwest and throughout the world. To register for a program or for more information, phone 800-422-8975, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. mountain time.

The photo below may be used by the media to accompany this press release. No other use is authorized. Photographer credit and copyright notice is required.

Photo caption: Native American arts and crafts include pottery, carvings, jewelry, weaving, and basketry. Photo by Ginnie Dunlop. Copyright © 2004 Crow Canyon Archaeological Center.