Burntwater

The Burntwater rug style originated north of the Rio Puerco Valley near Sanders, Arizona. In 1968, Philomena Yazzie was the first Navajo weaver to combine the design elements of bordered rugs, from Ganado and Two Grey Hills, with the earth-toned vegetal-dyed colors from the Crystal regional style. Navajo rug traders and collectors alike quickly embraced this new look.

Using both commercial and handspun yarns, the Burntwater has evolved into a bordered rug that has become increasingly intricate and complex in both its geometric center and accompanying design elements. Its plant- source colors reflect the unique beauty of the Southwest by using rich earth tones and soft pastels.

Contemporary Burntwater weavers featured at Garland’s Navajo Rugs include Emily Malone, Roselyn Begay, Wanda Tracy, and Elverna Vanwinkle.