Collaborating with the Ritz Carlton has truly been an honor. From the start, we knew what our vision was. The Ritz Carlton in Marana, founded in 2009, has served as a luxurious getaway for tourists and locals alike. Our mission from the beginning was clear: we wanted to create a “sense of place.” based on Arizona’s rich history. The installation immerses Ritz visitors in the captivating narratives of the region, inviting them to discover the beauty and diversity of its cultural tapestry. For those captivated, the option to purchase these exquisite rugs and artifacts awaits, offering a connection to the essence of the Southwest.
Dara Davis has always had a lifelong fascination with Southwest culture. Through her vast experience, she carefully curated two Navajo rugs from her collection to be displayed in the lobby of the Ritz Carlton resort. The displays are similar to those of a loom, which Native American women would use to weave rugs and textiles alike. However, her creativity doesn't stop there. For the first rug display, she chose a Two Grey Hills rug and decorated the surrounding area with Acoma pottery, also a significant cultural item. The blend of the soft grey wools with the pottery, made using the Sgraffito technique, features intricate designs etched into the clay, revealing contrasting colors beneath the surface. Originating from Acoma Pueblo, North America's oldest continuously inhabited settlement, this pottery embodies a vibrant cultural heritage. Its earthy tones and intricate patterns complement the blue-ish Two Grey Hills Navajo rug, creating a harmonious blend of Southwestern artistry and craftsmanship in the space.
For her second rug, Dara chose a Germantown Revival Eye Dazzler Rug surrounded by old Navajo baskets. This choice was perfect, as the baskets offer a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Navajo people. These baskets, with their intricate designs and traditional craftsmanship, not only honor the artistry and history of their creators but also complement the Eye Dazzler rug. Together, the baskets and the rug create a harmonious display that celebrates the beauty and skill of Navajo artisans, providing a profound appreciation of their enduring legacy. With all of these small details in mind, Dara, Rene Robinson, and the other staff at the Ritz Carlton were able to contribute to something bigger than themselves—they were able to craft a sense of place.
