“Feather People” Sandpainting Weaving

This extraordinary handwoven Navajo Sandpainting weaving by skilled weaver Dennis Long is a beautiful interpretation of a traditional sandpainting design known as "Feather People". The design features four Yei figures (healing spirits), four sacred crops (corn, bean, squash, and tobacco), and a Rainbow Guardian that protects the borders of the healing space and opens up towards the east where the sun rises. The weaving displays balanced symmetry, a finely executed tight weave, and vibrant colors that stand out against a deep grey background. Dennis takes 4-ply yarn and splits it in two, allowing for a time-intensive finer weaving with sharp detail.

Dennis Long is the son of renowned weaver, Mary Long, one of the most celebrated Navajo weavers for sandpainting rugs of all time. “Feather People” is a design Dennis learned directly from his mother. Deaf and nonverbal from birth, Dennis learned to weave by sitting next to his mother while she wove throughout his childhood, carefully observing her process. Through this close mentorship, he learned not only her techniques and designs, but also the timeless wisdom and symbolism woven into sandpainting rugs.

Sandpaintings are created in traditional healing ceremonies by Navajo medicine men. While sandpainting weavings themselves are not considered religious or ceremonial items, this piece is a rare and stunning example of the woven works of art that honor the Diné healing tradition. Their production is very limited making them some of the most rare Navajo textiles, and they are highly sought after by collectors and museums.

50” (4' 2") Width, 47” (3' 11") Length