The Rio Grande Valley has long been considered a mecca for skilled Native American and Hispanic weavers. At Northern, we are drawing upon this rich local talent and expertise in the Fiber Arts Department.

Northern New Mexico College’s Fiber Arts Department offers the weaving student:

• a full-time, 2-year Fiber Arts Associate Degree
• a 1-year Weaving Certificate
• a variety of short-term intensive fiber arts courses

The Fiber Arts program encourages both personal artistic growth and the development of technical skills. This program provides a strong foundation for successfully pursuing textile weaving as a career. Course offerings, in addition to required courses such as Weaving I, Weaving II and Spinning, also include Loom Construction, Natural and Synthetic Dyeing, Rug Restoration, Rag Rugs, Ikat and Basketry. There are occasional guest instructors and an annual field trip to the Crownpoint rug auction. Students are encouraged to participate in a number of weaving shows and studio tours during the year. Classes are held at Northern New Mexico College’s El Rito Campus in El Rito, New Mexico. The town of El Rito is about two hours north of Albuquerque, one hour north of Santa Fe and one hour west of Taos. For further information or questions about the program please contact Karen Martinez at 1-575-581-4113 or kmartinez@nnmc.edu