For artists, nothing beats best-in-class award

By Shondiin Silversmith
Navajo Times

GALLUP, Aug. 14, 2014

Text size: A A A

(Times photo – Ravonelle Yazzie)

TOP: Many young artists’ pieces were displayed at this year’s 93rd annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial art exhibit. The framed charcoal drawing displayed on the right was created by Gregory Ballenger, 17.

BOTTOM: Veneron Yazzen’s art piece titled “The Sandpainters” won best in class in the 93rd annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial art exhibit and best in category.




There is not a shortage of talented Native American artists but what better way to show you mean business than earning best of class at the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial.

The 93rd Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial features an exhibit every year that showcases the work of Native American artists from across the Southwest.

Each artist can submit work into 10 different classes: textiles, kachina and carved wooden figures, metal smithing, lapidary arts, baskets, tribal arts, youth art, paintings and sand paintings, sculptures and pottery.

But only one artist is selected for best of class, earning a $400 prize.

The selection is based on working knowledge of raw materials, processes, methods and tools used in creating the items.

How to get The Times:

Back to top ^