Being a weaver herself, Dr. Wilkens was naturally drawn to the rug weavers of the Southwest. Dr. Wilkinsı interest lead her to talk to weavers, relatives of weavers and rug traders. She researched the history of weavers 100 to 120 years ago. Her research has opened an opportunity for her to publish her work. Her book, yet untitled, will be out in the fall of 2003. Dr. Wilkins said there are many books written from the traderıs point of view, but not much has been written from the native perspective.

Her book will include the relationship between the trader and the weaver. The interaction between trader and weaver played an important role in the way rugs were designed. Market demands made some rug designs more popular than others. In her research, she has found that weavers also had opportunities to travel and show their work. They would travel with wild west shows like with Buffalo Bill. There are stories of weavers and silversmiths traveling as far as Chicago and New York to sell their products. Travel allowed rugs to gain popularity and exposure throughout the nation.

Weaving has undergone a change from 100 years ago. Most native women were weavers then and girls learned the trade at a young age. Today, fewer women weave for many reasons. When asked if rug weaving was a dying art, Dr. Wilkins smiled. She responded that it was not a dying art rather it was a transforming and thriving art. Rugs have changed from purposeful to fine art. One hundred years ago, most would never have thought to hang a rug on the wall as art, Dr. Wilkins clarified.

Today, authentic Navajo rugs would never be put on the floor and walked on. She adds optimistically that young weavers are pushing the medium and taking it in a different direction while still balancing traditional beliefs.

There are many books available to assists you in purchasing an authentic Navajo rug. Dr. Wilkins advises, ³Buy what you like because it has spoken to you.²

Also in the fall of 2003, the book Blanket Weavers of the Southwest will be in bookstores. This book is a gathering of studies done by her adviser, Dr. Joe Ben Wheat. During his life time, his students, which included Dr. Wilkins, added their experience on the subject and are publishing his work.