The Diné people have lived and thrived in the American Southwest for thousands of years, staying in close harmony with nature, and a great deal of their artwork reflects that connection. Historic Diné settlement areas like Window Rock, Canyon de Chelly and Monument Valley provide some of nature’s most gorgeous settings from which to draw inspiration, as well as millenia of cultural stories and traditions. An upcoming exhibition at the Dancing Rabbit Gallery, running July 1 through August 31, celebrates the vast array of work created by talented artists of the Navajo Nation.
David K. John (Diné), Canyon Songs, acrylic on canvas, 36 x 24"
“Diversity in Diné art is a fascinating subject for me, and the more I examine the subject, the more fascinating it becomes,” says Katie Richarme, owner of the Dancing Rabbit Gallery. She adds that the Diné, being one of the largest Native American tribes, alongside the Cherokee, creates an even larger pool of talent to draw from. “But size alone isn’t enough to bring out these talents. There must be both inspiration and ability,” she says. “Inspiration comes to the Diné artists externally from the rugged beauty of the Navajo Nation territory. The colors of Mother Earth, the eons of sculpted scenery and the stunning variety of wildlife all are visible to the eye of the Diné artist. They also receive inspiration internally from their oral histories, traditions and cultural beliefs.” As an example, she cites David K. John’s paintings of the Yei, spirit deities that give messages and guidance to the Diné peoples to help them live their daily lives in harmony with Mother Earth.
A selection of jewelry: innovative multi-stone cuff by Vern Begaye (Diné); Sciacca coral necklace by Albert Lee (Diné); inlaid pendant by Abraham Begay (Diné); and cobblestone and inlaid cuff by Michael Perry (Diné).
The exhibition, aptly titled Versatility of Diné Art, features everything from pottery, jewelry and sculpture to fine art, weavings and basketry. Among the many esteemed Diné artists in the show are Michael Perry, Vern Begaye, Oreland Joe, Samuel Manymules, Abraham Begay, Albert Lee, Nadine Gould and many others. 
Oreland Joe Jr. (Diné), Maiden, alabaster, 24 x 8 x 7"
Nadine Gould (Diné), Two Grey Hills Weaving, 13 x 17"
“I look forward to seeing future evolution by these many Diné artists,” says Richarme. “Their exposure to new ideas is facilitated by international travel and juried competitions, and the access to communications technology has brought new ideas to the forefront.”
The Dancing Rabbit Gallery
July 1-August 31, 2022
(505) 850-2212
www.thedancingrabbitgallery.com
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