Larry Yazzie (Navajo)

My sculptures often portray women because the woman symbolizes life and the foundation of the family. The wedding basket represents the union of male and female.

-- Larry Yazzie

Larry Yazzie is a full blood Navajo. He was born and raised on the Navajo reservation. He graduated with honors from the Institute of American Indian Art in Santa Fe, New Mexico in 1985. His talent was recognized early on by some very prominent people in the art world. He is a consistent winner of various prestigious awards.

Larry works mainly with sandstone or Virginia soapstone. He never uses a model. His creations are brought to life straight from his incredible imagination. The patinas or coloring he uses are also a hallmark of his work. He explains that “an artist can hide mistakes in patinas, or in the textured areas of a piece. I prefer smooth, flat surfaces and black patinas. This makes it difficult to hide mistakes. The foundries tell me that the lines and forms I use, and my patinas, are very hard for them to do.” Larry Yazzie.

Larry’s sculptures are very unique and highly sought after by collectors. His workmanship speaks for itself.

When I experience success, I thank the Great Spirit who gave me this gift. I am proud of my heritage, and am grateful that I have been given a way to share with others, the beauty and dignity of my Native American culture.

-- Larry Yazzie