Necklace c. 1930s

Editor: So, here we have a Necklace from the 1930s, created by a Navajo artist, made with silver and metal. It has this amazing almost futuristic but ancient vibe to it. What do you see in this piece that might not be immediately obvious? Curator: Oh, it's whispering secrets of resilience, isn’t it? It makes me think of water in the desert, those cool turquoise stones amidst the harsh landscape of silver. You know, each stone likely carries a story, a prayer, reflecting the Diné connection to the earth. And the naja, that crescent shape, guarding against evil... it's not just adornment, is it? It’s a potent symbol, a tiny universe. Editor: Absolutely, and the craftsmanship is incredible. It makes you wonder about the artist who made this. Curator: Exactly! What were their hopes, their dreams? The hours spent meticulously shaping the silver, embedding those beautiful stones... it’s a labour of love and cultural preservation. It’s like holding a piece of history, you know? Have you ever tried silversmithing? It really connects you to the materials and process. Editor: No, but it sounds amazing. It completely changes my perspective thinking about the work involved and meaning woven into the object. Curator: It does, doesn't it? Each piece is an echo of ancestors. Editor: Well, I'll definitely look at Indigenous art differently going forward. Thanks for that insight. Curator: My pleasure! It's all about opening our eyes, right? Finding those connections that span centuries.