Bear Fetish Carving with Heart Line
by Joseph Begay, Zuni Pueblo
Picasso marble, turquoise inlay, pinshell
1 1/4” high x 1 3/4” long x 1/2” wide
Joseph Begay is a full blooded Diné (Navajo) born in the Navajo Nation in 1964. He learned the art of carving on stones from his friend, Jeff Lewis. Joseph began carving stones at the age of 22. The beneficial aspect of the business played a key role in him becoming a hardworking artist. It's his primary income resource to support his family. Joseph works with natural stones that are found throughout the southwest. The stones he primarily carves from are Alabaster, Serpentine, Picasso Marble, Jet, Dolomite, Amber and Selenite. His unique animals include life like representations of Bears, Turtles, Eagles, Coyotes, Buffalo, and several others. His carvings are enhanced by either solid or multi-color inlaid heart line or a prayer bundle containing arrows, feathers, and heshi that he places on the back of his carvings. Joseph is proud and honored to be artistically gifted with this special talent. He is also extremely enthusiastic about sharing his carvings with all who respect and appreciate his artistic abilities and his cultural background. He signs his carvings as: J.B.
