Ed Yazzie

Ed Yazzie is a member of the Navajo tribe and with his family resides on the Navajo Nation. "Art has always been a part of my life," states Ed. His mother is a Navajo rug weaver and both his parents worked as silversmiths for a time in their lives. From an early age he was involved in drawing, crafting and sculpting.

It is amazing to see the intricate details and quality of Ed's work, who is a self-taught artist who has been sculpting for sixteen years. His first carvings were people out of cottonwood roots. The decision to become a full time artist came after many years of working and doing sculpting part time. His sculptures tell a story about Ed's determination, ability, devotion and eagerness to look beyond life's challenges. "Sometimes I am in awe of my own creations and I believe the Creator has entrusted me with a talent and I want to make good use of it."

Ed's sculptures are a blend of contemporary and traditional forms of Native Americans and their lifestyles.

Yazzie has received many awards at prestigious art shows, including Best of Show, Best of Category and Best of Division. He was featured in the 1994 summer issue of Utah Highways magazine.