Artwork Details
- Title
- Protected in Bliss
- Artist
- Date
- 1991
- Location
- Dimensions
- 24 1⁄8 x 23 1⁄4 in. (61.2 x 59.0 cm)
- Credit Line
- Gift of Chuck and Jan Rosenak and museum purchase made possible by Ralph Cross Johnson
- Mediums
- Mediums Description
- handspun wool with native and vegetable dyes
- Classifications
- Subjects
- Animal — bird
- Indian — Navajo
- Figure group — bust
- Object Number
- 1997.124.186
Artwork Description
Matilda wanted to explode what was expected of a traditional rug weaver. She wanted to open doors of creativity.
--Shaundina Watson, eldest daughter of Damon
Protected in Bliss is a round rug depicting an eagle protecting a Diné (Navajo) couple. The artist learned to weave from her mother, Mary Ann Damon, whose sought-after rug designs supported the family. Mary Ann taught Matilda all the skills involved with weaving, many of which began long before they sat down at the loom: Matilda cared for a flock of sheep, then sheered, cleaned, spun, and dyed the wool, and gathered plants for the dyes. Mary Ann also encouraged Matilda to find her own artistic voice, and the artist distinguished herself with the rounded form and pictorial designs. In turn, Matilda devoted summers to sharing her knowledge with her young children, whether by teaching them to read or weave rugs. From start to finish, this artwork carries the joy and love of family.
Exhibitions
