Clothing is all about pattern, so I asked my
colleagues at the museum what they thought about sharing pottery designs with the Tea Collection. From these designs, the Tea design team could pick out motifs and patterns that could be repeated on the fabric out of which the garment was sewn. Before sending any photographs of pottery with the Tea team, I reviewed my ideas and photographs of pottery from the collections with my colleagues. They approved most of my ideas, deleting a few that contained sacred symbols. The Tea Collection picked four motifs around which to create patterns for the clothes. The subsequent textile patterns were reviewed by the museum curators and the Indian Advisory Panel. Everyone was excited about the project. They were thrilled a clothing collection was being developed featuring motifs integral to their cultural identity.
During the product development phase, I inquired about the child models the Tea Collection was going to use for the photo shoot. Representatives explained they had a group of local children they worked with. Hearing such, I asked if it would not be more appropriate if they photographed the collection in New Mexico at one of the local Pueblos. Yes, it would cost more; but it was the right thing to do. They agreed and the ensuing process could not have been more joyful and satisfying for all.
We worked with a member of the Indian Advisory Panel, Edwina Abeita, an elder at San Felipe Pueblo, to help us with the process. We started by speaking with the Pueblo Governor. Without his approval, we could not go forward. Next, we arranged a casting call at the school library where children from the Pueblo (toddlers, and children aged eight to 12) came to be photographed. From the photos of the 50 children that showed up, the Tea Collection team picked a group of six children to participate. Here are a few photos from that day on the Pueblo and the subsequent catalog spread. As you can see joy and pride was in abundance that day.
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Inspiration above:
Storage chest, late-19th century, New Mexico. Museum of International Folk Art.
Final Product:
Square Paneled Cocktail Table, Hickory Chair.