Collage Basket (2001)

Peggy Black’s Collage is a wonderful combination of symbols, deities, animals, and human figures. Inspired by a rug weaver who combined many designs in his work, Peggy decided to do the same. Beginning with the central fire circled by dancers, images emerge around them as if conjured by their songs. The figure of a Yé’ii (Navajo god) surrounds the dancers. Splitting the background into black and white, Peggy gives balance to her basket. In the white half look for the Hero Twins, Naayééʼ Neizghání (Monster Slayer) and Tóbájíshchíní (Born-for-Water), on either side of a blue river, First Frog, various birds and a horse. Can you spot the American flag? On the dark half, look for Ma’ii (Coyote) scattering the stars and images of the Long Walk next to colorful butterflies and an assortment of sacred animals. What else do you see?