06.24.23 Harrison Begay

Painting the Navajo Way of Life
Harrison Begay

By Rebekah Powers | June 2023

Harrison Begay, also known as Haskay Yahne Yah (meaning “Warrior Who Walked Up to His Enemy”), 1914-2012 is a renowned Diné (Navajo) painter, printmaker and illustrator specializing in watercolors, gouache and silkscreen prints. At his death in 2012, Begay was the last living former student of Dorothy Dunn and Geromina C. Montoya of the Santa Fe Indian School and he became one of the most famous Diné artists of his generation.

Harrison Begay was born in White Cone, Arizona and he had 8 siblings. His mother belonged to the Red Forehead Clan and his father was from the Zuni Deer Clan. He grew up in a hogan and helped tend the goats and sheep that his family raised. His talent was recognized early and he landed a coveted spot in Dunn’s class, learning her characteristic “Studio Style” and “Flat style” of painting.

Dunn described Harrison’s work as “at once decorative and lifelike, his color clear in hue and even in value, his figures placed carefully yet inwardly animated, he seemed to be inexhaustibly resourceful in a quiet, reticent way.”

The many museums and collectors worldwide value his paintings for “the timeless, gentle world he portrays, recognizing the beauty of the Navajo way of life.” To gaze at one of Harrison Begay’s paintings is to be captivated by the soft tones, and his inventive, original style which is refined, delicate and detailed. Chimayo Trading Del Norte has an extensive collection by the artist on view in our gallery and online.

If you have had a memorable experience with us in the past,
please leave a review.

Come to the gallery to see where History Meets Art in Taos..

#1 Saint Francis Church Plaza
Ranchos de Taos, NM 87557

575.758.0504

We buy individual pieces or whole collections.

Contact us for the evaluation and resale of your collectible art.
We’re interested in locating relevant collections and original New Mexico artwork for purchase. We buy historic and contemporary relevant paintings, pottery, jewelry, textiles, weavings and more.

Contact us directly to discuss and evaluate your collection. If you’re an artist, contact us about the possibility of selling your art on consignment or direct wholesale purchase.

• Instagram
• Facebook

Copyright © 2023 Chimayo Trading Del Norte | Ranchos Del Taos, 87557 | All rights reserved.