The 'Navajo Pastora' or Navajo Shepherdess, was inspired by one Navajo woman who showed her love for a lamb. I sculpted the original in clay, but found it challenging to replicate the texture of the wool on the lamb. The pastora represents a mature, wise weaver who is sitting in an almost ritualistic manner while she holds a lamb in her arms. Her pleated skirt represents the topography of northern New Mexico and her feet represent the deep roots of the Indian tradition with a texture that mimics tree roots. She has a traditional blouse brought together at her waist with a silver concha belt. Her head is covered with a scarf, traditionally worn by the Navajo women."