Wearable Western Art - Jewelry
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Time to read 5 min
Jewelry as self-expression
In the vast and diverse landscapes of the American West, a rich tradition of artistic expression has long flourished, transcending the canvas and permeating the very items we adorn ourselves with. Wearable Western art—jewelry—has emerged as artists showcase their talents and allow individuals to embody the region’s spirit through self-expression.
From the unique elegance of hand-forged rings to the striking silhouettes of pendants and necklaces, Western-inspired jewelry has become a means of personal style and cultural connection. These accessories, imbued with the essence of the frontier, allow wearers to carry a piece of the West's storied heritage wherever they go.
Whether it's an intricately inlaid bracelet, a statement-making hatband, or a bolo tie that tells a story, each wearable work of art becomes an extension of the wearer's identity. Through the skilled hands of experienced artisans and designers, the rugged beauty of the American West is transformed into artful adornments.
Explore the Wearable Western Art from several of Sorrel Sky's jewelry artists … the craftsmanship, symbolism, and personal narratives that make these pieces so captivating. Uncover the heart and soul of this vibrant artistic tradition. Find the perfect gift, or add a touch of the West's timeless elegance to your own personal jewelry style.
BEN NIGHTHORSE
“What I do with my hands is really an extension of what the creator wills. The only person that can create is the creator.” — Ben Nighthorse
Ben Nighthorse's creative journey is now in its 90th decade. Amidst various life chapters, his unwavering passion for jewelry design has remained steadfast, defining his core identity.
Nighthorse's achievements include many personal milestones and advocacy endeavors. Emerging from his U.S. Air Force service, he captained the U.S. Olympic Judo Team in the 1964 Games. Later he established a prosperous horse ranch while raising a family. His journey later led him to politics, with a tenure in the U.S. Congress and as a U.S. Senator for Colorado.
Throughout each period, his bond with jewelry remained unbreakable. Each facet of his life story—airman, judo Olympian, equine enthusiast, statesman, and artisan—resonates deeply within his creations, radiating authenticity, aesthetic elegance, and introspective depth.
The “Morning Star,” is a unique symbol of courage and determination for the Cheyenne. Nighthorse was granted permission by the Northern Cheyenne to use this enduring symbol of strength as his signature stamp. It is featured on all his jewelry creations, which are found exclusively at Sorrel Sky Gallery.
The Legacy Continues
For over eight decades, the name Nighthorse has been synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship and timeless beauty in the world of jewelry. Now, we invite you to experience the next chapter in this remarkable family legacy.
As you explore this Nighthorse collection, you'll discover jewelry that is at once familiar and fresh, comfortable yet luxurious. Each tells a story of generational craft, of traditions reborn, and of a family united in creating beauty that endures.
ARTIE YELLOWHORSE
"We take great pride in continuing a family legacy and bringing beauty and joy to people – helping in understanding the Navajo concept of 'Walk with Beauty.'" — Artie Yellowhorse
Known for her contemporary designs, Artie Yellowhorse incorporates high-quality stones and materials with an exceptional quality of silverwork. The influences of her Navajo heritage are apparent in the beautiful wearable art, which evolved out of generations of artistic talent.
Raised in Arizona, Yellowhorse is a third-generation Navajo jewelry artist from the Towering House Clan. Her grandfather and father were both silversmiths and the women in her family were skilled weavers. Yellowhorse has carried on the jewelry-making tradition and passed it on to her daughters, Desiree and Le Lani.
RAY TRACEY
“As I have gotten older, life has become more dear to me. I am now more in tune with intangible sources for my inspiration.” — Ray Tracey
One of today’s most recognized contemporary Navajo jewelers, Ray Tracey stays rootedness in the Navajo jewelry tradition while firmly embracing contemporary designs and techniques.
Whether using traditional materials like turquoise set in stamped silver or crafting intricate multi-stone inlays set in gold, Tracey’s inspirations come from many sources. Early in his career, he found muses in the natural world and within his Native American culture. Today, with decades of successful artistic production under his belt and 60+ years of living, his creativity is now sourced rom a deep appreciation for being alive.
Featured frequently in premiere Western art publications such as in Cowboys & Indians magazine, Tracey’s jewelry has been included in major exhibitions at the Heard Museum, Autry Museum, Eiteljorg Museum, and in Germany and Japan. He has won Best of Show at Santa Fe Indian Market and Gallop Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial. His work is held in the collections of the Natural History Museum in Los Angeles and the Millicent Rodgers Museum, Taos, N.M. Tracey lives and works in Window Rock, Arizona.
JEANETTE DALE
"Soldering came naturally to me … it was like I was born to it. I showed my first ring to a dealer and he hired me to make jewelry for him.” — Jeanette Dale
A contemporary Navajo artist, Jeanette Dale learned silversmithing from her mother but developed a traditional style all her own. Her pieces are recognizable for her distinctive combination of silverwork and beautiful natural stones. Preferring the traditional Navajo style with heavy, deep stamping and high polishes, Dale still follows her first employer's advice: to leave a mark to show the jewelry was handmade.
With over 40 years of jewelry making, Dale doesn't have to convince anyone to buy her jewelry. Having won top awards at the Gallup Intertribal ceremonial, her work is sought after by collectors around the world.
SHANE HENDREN
“I traded one precarious life of ups and downs for another – most people don’t choose the life of an artist, so you really have to want it.” –Shane Hendren
Born into a New Mexico ranching family, Shane Hendren learned bull riding and metalworking before discovering his real talent for creating beautiful and unique jewelry. A self-described Genuine American, it shows in everything he does.
Hendren honed his talents at the Institute of American Indian Arts and the University of New Mexico, where he graduated with a rare BFA in all disciplines. Adept at sculpting, painting, and performing on stage, he chose jewelry as his final expressive medium. And despite his long and storied ancestry of Irish, Choctaw, and Navajo descent, Hendren puts no limitations on his artistic process. “I never did self-identify as an Indian artist – I never saw myself that way,” he says.
Dedicating over 20 years to developing his skills as a metalsmith, Hendren has focused on his jewelry production. It progressed through various evolutions denoted by techniques like mokume-gane, cuttlefish, tufa casting, and hollow form construction, to name a few.
The Indian Arts & Crafts Association, the world's leading American Indian Arts Alliance, named Hendren its 2016 Artist of the Year. This prestigious honor has been awarded to Hendren three times, a first in the history of the IACA.
