My third Great-Grandfather, Gray Horse was the first silversmith in our family. His son, my second Great-Grandfather Big Horse followed suit. His daughter, my Great-Grandmother Nosbah and her husband Cutnose Charley, were third generation smiths. Fourth in line was my amazing Grandmother Louise Charley Morgan, whom my dad Harry Morgan credited as the sole inspiration for his style of jewelry making. It was a style that focused heavily on sandcasting and stamp work. Turquoise was used mostly in freeform settings which gave the pieces a beautiful balance. Although I came from a long line of silversmiths, I really had no inclination to follow in their footsteps.
That changed during a golfing trip in 2005. My oldest brother Kelly encouraged me to take up silversmithing to help continue on our long standing family tradition. Shortly after I built a wooden bench out of scrap lumber, began purchasing jewelry making tools and started practicing with copper. One year later, with the guidance from my dad, my first silver project making rings and bracelets was underway. Sadly, he passed away in 2007 leaving me with the difficult but rewarding task of learning by trial and error.
In 2009 I participated in my first major art show at the prestigious Santa Fe Indian Market, winning a First Place ribbon for a sterling silver jewelry box. The following year I made another jewelry box that was awarded an Honorable Mention ribbon at the Heard Guild Indian Fair & Market in Phoenix, AZ. I've been fortunate enough to attend both ever since. In doing so, there have been many valuable lessons and experiences gained by participating in them. The summer of 2016 was definitely a highlight as I had the incredible experience of creating several custom made pieces for UFC legend, Cowboy Cerrone and his coaching staff.
I strive to make unique, one of a kind jewelry. Whether it’s fabricating with commercial sheet and wire or casting and forging them by hand, the desire to create legacy art is a true passion. Honoring our elder's contributions while setting a path for future generations is a rewarding and worthwhile responsibility. Being a Navajo silversmith is an absolute honor and privilege. I thank you all for your support!
