The Artist
Ya’-a’t’-e’e’h (Hello). My name is Amelia. I am Dine’ (Navajo) and am of the Bitterwater (todich’ iinnii) Clan, born for the Mud (hast lish nii) Clan.
Artist Statement
My traditional Navajo background surfaces in all aspects of my jewelry design. A complete shift from traditional Navajo silversmith design to modern design will never happen for me. The Navajo culture is a powerful part of my life and I want parts of it to always surface in my designs. I have managed to combine my traditional ways with contemporary jewelry techniques.
The Dine’ (Navajo) Philosophy of Life encompasses air, fire, water, and earth. The four sacred directions, colors, plants, and mountains are an integral part of my designs. These elements of nature – life giving sources – will not be shown together in one whole piece. To “Walk in Beauty” (Hozho’), as I have learned, is not easy when one walks in two worlds.
Education
Indiana University – Master of Science in Art Education
Emphasis in Metalsmith & Jewelry Design (1997)
New Mexico State University – Bachelor of Science in Art Education (1987)
Professional Experience
1997 to Present: Silversmith ~ Joe-Chandler Jewelry
1987 to Present: Art Teacher ~ Pre-school thru College
Currently ~ Montezuma-Cortez High School Art
1975-1989: Sandpainter ~ Self-employed
Professional Memberships
American Craft Council (ACC)
Colorado Metalsmiths Association (CoMA)
Indian Arts and Crafts Association (IACA)
Society of North American Goldsmiths (SNAG)
Galleries
Home and Away Gallery, Kennebunkport, ME
Four Winds Gallery, Pittsburgh, PA
Turquoise Raven Art Gallery, Cortez, CO
Exhibitions
Dancing Bear Gallery Solo Show, Dirt & Art Expo, EyeCon Eyewear Exhibition, IAIA Contemporary Native American Art Show, MetalWorks: Containers of Form, Pinon Arts and Humanities Art Show, Playful Intent, River Trading Post Solo Show, Shot Tower Gallery: Honoring Native American Women and Women Artists
Shows
Art in the Park, Aspen Art Show, Durango Main Avenue Arts Festival, Eitlejorg Museum Indina Market, Heard Museum Indina Market, IACA Wholesale Show, Kansas City Indian Market & Southwest Showcase, Mid America Native American/Southwest Art Show, Moab Arts Festival, Museum of Northern Arizona Navajo Marketplace, Native American Artist Invitational, Native Harvest Art Festival, Prescott Indian Market, Red Earth, Santa Fe Indian Market, Texas Indian Market & Southwest Showcase