Basketmaker IV: 2009
Contemporary Pueblo basketmakers
April 17 - July 18, 2009

Basketmaker IV: 2009 is an intentional addendum to the Pecos Classification developed by archaeologists in the early 1920’s to describe the material culture they found in numerous places throughout the Southwest. Our intent is to enhance understanding of Pueblo people, who believe that there are no demarcations in our cultural evolution and every aspect of our development was, for the most part, purposeful. Although there was a decline in basket making, it is a media that is still vital to the people, our culture and religious ceremonies. The Poeh Cultural Center and Museum continues to preserve our Pueblo culture and arts by providing classes in various traditional media including basket making to regenerate these beautiful traditions and keep them alive for future generations.

The Pecos Classification chronological system was based on the cultural development of Pueblo people and is still used as the most general standard of reference for the Southwest. The chronology begins with the Paleo-Indian (? BP – 6500 BP), Basket maker I (6500 BP – AD 1), Basket maker II (AD 1 – 500), and Basket maker III (500-700). After this point in the chronology, there is a transition to Pueblo I, II, III, and IV, which includes the period of time between 700-2000.

The Basket maker chronology is characterized by advancements in housing styles, weaponry (atlatls, bow and arrows) and, of course, beautiful and functional baskets. As far as Pueblo people are concerned, the chronology of our evolution will continue into the future through experimentation, research and creativity by individuals who are committed to keeping this and other cultural traditions alive. The Poeh Center can only provide the impetus for creative learning in the arts; the individuals representing various communities in this exhibition are the stalwarts of this beautiful and functional tradition.