Barbara Teller Ornelas

Barbara Teller Ornelas (Diné/Navajo) was born, as her birth certificate states, “in the vicinity of” Montrose, Colorado on November 26, 1954. Her entry into the world took place in the shadow of a pinion tree as her family was in the process of gathering pinions nuts at the time of her premature arrival.  

“I am a fifth generation rug weaver in my family.” My mother taught me how to weave when I was 8 years old. At the time I hated it. They were like taking piano lessons. I sold my first rug to the Two Grey Hills Trading Post when I was 10. I got $10 for it. The rug was shaped like an hourglass, but I was proud of my efforts. After that I only did one rug in the summer time, when I was out of school. When I moved to Phoenix, I would have a rug on the loom because it reminded me of my mother, my family and home. 

My work means a lot to me. There’s a great amount of emotions involved in the finished pieces. My rugs are like my children. I like to keep track of them. It’s a special joy for me to meet the people who will buy my work. My working at home is convenient in that I am able to simultaneously care and provide for my family here in Tucson and my mother who lives in New Mexico. My family is well known for weaving Two Grey Hills tapestries with high weft counts. This style was heavily influenced by the traders at the Two Grey Hills Trading Post where my father worked for 35 years

In the past, the weavers in this regional area used mostly hand carded, hand spun natural colored wool in a double diamond pattern using geometric designs. Due to economic pressures, some weavers have resorted to using commercial processed wool. Our family’s pieces are easily identifiable by a rich red/brown wool used for the inside field color. This wool is from my Aunt Margaret’s flock. Her sheep is a blended animal of Merino and Rambouillet. Our family’s commitment to preparing our own wool, including selvage cords and wool warp used in our Two Grey Hills tapestries is a standard that was set by our elders. Each generation has achieved and contributed to this standard.

My work, my ideas, my processes and weaving materials are ever evolving but staying true to the standards set by my elders. I take the responsibility of carrying on our family’s tradition by teaching my family and mentoring others to help preserve this cultural legacy.