Hopi Snake Dance By Harrison (Haskay Yahne Yah) Begay

Description

(1917- ). "Warrior who walked up to his enemy". 5" x 6" silk screen. Considered by many to be the dean of traditional Navajo artists, Begay grew up in a fmaily that herded sheep and goats for sustenance. When he was 17 he entered the Santa Fe Indian School, which had recently been founded by Dorothy Dunn. Dunn had created an art education program at the school that eventually proved to be a major influence on young Indian artists, which eventually became known as "Studio Style". He served as muralist at the WPA, which led to his famous murals that can still be seen at Maisel's Trading Post in Albuquerque. One of the many unfortunate consequences of Begay's lifelong struggle with alcohol has been the necessity to sell his work for far less than its value to meet immediate needs. This has kept prices for his work low overall. Despite these difficulties, his art is included in almost every exhibition and publication on Indian painting. His works are in the permanent collections of major museums all over the world. His paintings have exerted greater influence on the contemporary Navajo artists than any other individual. 5"x6"; Frame 10" x 12".
Inventory: O675