Contemporary Native American jewelers are storytellers through the pieces they create. They are celebrating their cultures through traditional patterns and motifs while innovating with the designs and look of the work. This summer the Dancing Rabbit Gallery presents the online exhibition Contemporary Traditions in Native American Jewelry, which will spotlight some of the innovative pieces that are being made today.
Tim Yazzie (Navajo/San Felipe), Overlay Pendant with Ithaca Peak Turquoise
Tim Yazzie uses the finest materials to push his jewelry to new levels. His works, which begin with the idea for a design that he then draws freehand on sterling silver, often have intricate inlays and stonework. Among his pieces is an overlay corn maiden pendant with the face being a cabochon of Ithaca Peak turquoise. The bottom feathers of the overlay are also in the same turquoise but inlaid with dolomite and black jade.
Althea Cajero (Acoma/Kewa), Floating Band and Coral Cuff
A unique piece in the show is Althea Cajero’s floating band and coral cuff, which has deep red Mediterranean coral cabochon juxtaposed against the shiny sterling silver band floating above the cuff. “The floating silver on the bracelet represents this free-flowing freedom that seems to be separate from the bracelet but yet is connected, as we all are connected to each other and to Mother Earth,” explains Cajero.
Albert Lee (Navajo), Three Stone Royston Turquoise Cuff
The three stone Royston turquoise cuff by Albert Lee—who carries on a family tradition that goes back six generations—features three large cabochons fitting into straight-edged bezels that are surrounded by heavy sterling twisted wire. Lee says, “Royston turquoise has always been a favorite stone to work with because of the rich variation of colors of blues and greens with beautiful matrix. I love it its striking colors.”
Abraham Begay (Navajo), Trapezoid Inlaid Pendant
Althea Cajero (Acoma/Kewa), Tahitian Pearl Cuff and Pendant
Abraham Begay’s jewelry is balanced with fluid symmetry and functionality. His trapezoid inlay pendant features micro-inlay techniques that show the dynamic and intricate aspects of creating the work. The sterling silver base is carved and inlaid with turquoise, jet, pipestone and jasper that are balanced with the raised top layer that has the same gemstones in a different design. The symmetry continues with sterling silver panels of carved symbols flanking the center pendant.
The exhibition will be available July 15 through September 30.
The Dancing Rabbit Gallery
July 15-September 30, 2021
(505) 850-2212
www.thedancingrabbitgallery.com
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