Artists Gallery
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Fernando Benally
Fernando Benally began his art career making silver beads for his uncle Ernest Benally twelve years ago at the age of 17. Born and raised here in Gallup, N.M., Fernando’s grandmother Lupe and grandfather John Benally have kept alive his connection to the Navajo (Diné) culture. “Without the influence of my family, being a silversmith for a career would have been the last thing I would have chosen,” says Benally. If it seems the young artist uses a lot of symbolism in his artistic pieces, it’s true. “In my artwork I incorporate symbols that have special meanings,” he says. “The symbols are in my artwork to remind me not to forget the Navajo & Aztec blood that runs through me.” As with most artists, there is a method to the craft, and for Fernando, he says the best way to describe his jewelry is to says that “it is jewelry that is created with spirit and love.”
When asked what he sees himself doing 10 years from now, Benally, 29, has a quick answer. “Being a silversmith & designing is now a life passion,” he says. “So I see myself doing this for many years.” Fernando lists his wife, Melody, and his daughter, Oljaii, as his biggest accomplishments in life. “They’re bringing my life into focus and are the greatest gift the Great Spirit has blessed me with,” said Benally. “So I guess my greatest accomplishment is still in the making.”
Reach Fernando Benally at his studio in Gallup, New Mexico at 505-231-3298, or email: melody_sauceda@msn.com