Fit for the Glitterati: 13 Masterpieces by the Yazzie Family of Navajo Jewelers

Share this Story

Get News Alerts

Submit this Story

The National Museum of the American Indian's New York City location is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and the institution has pulled out the big guns for the occasion. "Glittering World" is a massive exhibition consisting of over 300 pieces of jewelry made by the Yazzie family, a clan of Navajo artists whose silver, turquoise and coral creations demonstrate some of the finest craftsmanship in Indian country, and the world.

“This exhibition tells a story of both the artisans and the craftsmanship, exploring the natural materials, cultural influences and surroundings that inspire the Yazzie family,” said NMAI Director Kevin Gover, Pawnee, adding that the exhibition “goes beyond Native art to tell the story of the interplay between Navajo culture and commerce, which is in keeping with the museum’s mission to evolve the way visitors see and experience the long saga and continuing life of Native peoples.”

"Glittering World" focuses in particular on brothers Lee and Raymond Yazzie, but includes pieces by other family members as well. The exhibition opened to the public today (November 13), and runs through January 10.

On Wednesday night, Lee and Raymond Yazzie were among the honored guests at a gala where several Indian country notables from diverse fields were celebrated: Jacoby Ellsbury, Navajo, professional baseball player (sports); Patricia Michaels, Taos Pueblo, Fashion and Textile Designer (art and design); Keith Harper, Cherokee, U.S. Ambassador, U.N. Human Rights Council (public service); and Randall L. Willis, Lakota, Managing Director, Technology, Accenture (business). The event was emcee'd by actor Chaske Spencer.