Diné (Navajo) Artist Profiles: Lyonel Lewis and Marie Claw


Lyonel Lewis
Precious Metalsmith


Lyonel Lewis's  happy nature is evident on this wintery day on Carson Mesa

Lyonel Lewis was born  in Leupp, Arizona and grew up in Leupp and Chinle, Arizona.
Lyonel is 

Dine' (Navajo). He learned the fundamentals of silversmithing from his chei, his maternal grandfather, Gilbert Hunter. His mentors include Master silversmiths Thomas Carusetta and Cody Hunter. Lyonel works independently from his homes in Flagstaff and Chinle, Arizona.

Lyonel's instinct for composition and design lead him to excel in both traditional and avant garde jewelry creations. 

Lyonel is an avid runner who enjoys many other outdoor activities including hiking and rock climbing. He is a charming person with a positive, cheerful disposition and a wide social circle. 

A rare, fine specimen of Mediterranean  branch coral in a sterling and 14K gold ring by Lyonel Lewis

This traditional squash blossom boasts natural Carico Lake turquoise and hand made beads in sterling silver.

Handmade Sterling cuff by Lyonel Lewis


Marie Claw
Weaver


Marie Claw is seldom without a smile


Marie Claw was born in 1926 and grew up in Sheep Dip Canyon, north of Chinle, Arizona. She had a full, hardworking childhood 
 herding sheep and helping to care for her siblings. 

Marie's favorite flowers are hollyhocks

Marie leads a productive life in Chinle, spending time every week in volunteer work, socializing with her large circle of friends and occasionally weaving a new rug. She has traveled more in the last several years than in  her early years, visiting Albuquerque and even local landmarks such as Spider Rock for the first time in her life. Her generous spirit and happy, good humored nature ensure that she is always surrounded with friends who love her. 



 The rug above is fresh off the loom and Marie is ready for her next project. 
Marie more colorfully calls the traditional "Grandmother" pattern, below, the "chainsaw."
She's nearly finished with this one, and it's a beauty.





Marie's hand-woven rugs are treasures.


You may click to enlarge the above photos.