New Blanket! Michelle Lowden's Prayer for Beauty and Healthy Growth

Michelle Lowden (Acoma Pueblo), owner of Milo Creations, was the very first arts entrepreneur to join our Inspired Natives Project, and has been partnering with Eighth Generation since before we became the first Native-owned company to offer wool blankets! A testament to growth in more ways than one, the "Whispering Blossoms" Wool Blanket is Michelle's second wool blanket with Eighth Generation - and comes just as she prepares for motherhood!

The Whispering Blossoms Wool Blanket by Michelle Lowden (Acoma Pueblo)

The perfect blanket to symbolize new growth and new beginnings, her "Whispering Blossoms" wool blanket tells the story of the early days of Spring in the Acoma Pueblo Valley when the land yearns for moisture so the vibrant blossoms of the wildflowers can rise and bloom. The central motif of the blanket represents the blossoming agv́trṿtsị, and the pattern along the edges represents the moisture blessing the land and water cisterns.

Specializing in vibrant hand-painted jewelry, Michelle's inspiration to showcase traditional designs through contemporary mediums began with studying her family's history of illustrious potters. The floral designs featured on this particular blanket are commonly painted on the "Olla" pots used to carry water. Michelle says, "The floral designs are a prayer for beauty and healthy growth. Preparing for motherhood has been motivation to cultivate a good life and environment for my baby. That is my prayer to the individuals embraced in the blanket - that we reconnect to the healthy growth of our Indigenous babies and our Mother Earth. Giving thanks for it all."

Michelle in her Whispering Blossoms Wool Blanket, shot by Hannah Manuelito

Eighth Generation Project Manager, Serene Lawrence (Anishinaabe/Hopi), says of Michelle's work, "Her designs are not only beautiful, but deeply meaningful and symbolic of her Acoma culture and traditional territory. As both an artist and a mother, Michelle will continue to bring power and beauty into the world!" And Eighth Generation is bringing even more Southwest power your way - keep an eye out for Eighth Generation's upcoming blanket with Diné artist Jared Yazzie!