Intel’s Pentium computer chip and Navajo textiles may seem like an unlikely pairing, but for artist Marilou Schultz, the two worlds collide in a fascinating way. By merging the ancestral practice of Navajo weaving with the intricate patterns found on computer processor cores, Schultz creates a unique blend of history and technology.
The history of Navajo weaving dates back to the 12th or 13th centuries when the craft was adopted from neighboring Puebloans. Over time, Navajo weaving styles and techniques evolved, gaining popularity among various tribes and European settlers for their exceptional craftsmanship and geometric patterns. The Diné people, also known as Navajo, have a long-standing tradition of raising sheep and producing wool, which plays a crucial role in their weaving practices.
In 1994, Intel commissioned Schultz to create “Replica of a Chip” as a gift for the American Indian Science & Engineering Society. This piece, meticulously crafted by Schultz, replicates the patterns found on the first Pentium processor released in 1993. The weaving, made using plant-dyed yarn and Navajo-Churro wool, showcases the intricate and asymmetrical geometries of the processor core.
Schultz’s weaving process was slow and deliberate, with each inch taking about a day to complete. This methodical approach to creating the tapestry highlights the contrast between the instantaneous nature of digital tools and the traditional craftsmanship of Navajo weaving.
“Replica of a Chip” is just one of the series of weavings Schultz has created based on computer circuits, including the Fairchild 9040. The Fairchild company, known for employing Navajo workers in Shiprock, New Mexico, faced challenges in the 1970s, leading to layoffs and ultimately closure. Schultz’s work sheds light on the role of women in electronics manufacturing and explores themes of gendered labor, progress, and social change through the lens of Navajo history and craft.
You can view “Replica of a Chip” and other works by Schultz in the exhibition “Woven Histories: Textiles and Modern Abstraction” at the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa until March 2, 2025. This exhibition showcases the intersection of traditional weaving techniques with contemporary technology, offering a unique perspective on the history and evolution of both art forms.
