Born in 1978 in Gallup, New Mexico

Sheldon Harvey is an acclaimed Navajo artist whose innovative approach to painting and sculpture has earned him international recognition. Growing up in Lukachukai, Arizona, near the Four Corners, Harvey was immersed in Navajo culture and the rich oral traditions of his people. His art draws deeply from the Navajo creation stories, particularly the First World Air Spirit Beings, blending ancient mythology with contemporary artistic expression.

A fluent Navajo speaker, Sheldon incorporates traditional themes into modernist frameworks, with influences ranging from Cubism to the painterly styles of de Kooning and Kandinsky. His work bridges the gap between cultural heritage and modern aesthetics, reshaping how the Navajo Yei are represented in contemporary art. His sculptures, crafted from wood and adorned with feathers, yucca, and other natural materials, embody the spirit of Navajo folklore, while his paintings often reflect the vibrant storytelling traditions of his upbringing.

Sheldon began his artistic journey as a child, learning from his uncle, Aaron Harvey, and his grandfather, Leo Harvey, a silversmith. Further honing his craft, he studied in the Fine Arts program at Diné College under Videl Nez. Despite his formal training, Sheldon credits much of his artistic development to his personal exploration of Navajo sandpaintings, weaving, and ceremonial dances such as the Yei-Be-Che.

Sheldon’s rise to prominence came in 2008 at the Santa Fe Indian Market, where he achieved a historic feat: winning both “Best in Show” for his oil painting Trickster Ways and Best in Category for Sculpture with a six-foot piece inspired by the Navajo twin heroes legend. This dual recognition solidified his reputation as a leading figure in Contemporary Native Art.

Harvey has received numerous accolades, including a first-place ribbon at the 2016 Gallup Ceremonial Show. His works are housed in prestigious collections worldwide, from the United States to Europe and Asia. Drawing inspiration from artists such as R.C. Gorman and Dan Namingha, Harvey’s art serves as a testament to his commitment to preserving Navajo culture while pushing the boundaries of modern art.

Today, Sheldon Harvey continues to captivate collectors and audiences globally with his visionary designs, masterful use of texture and color, and profound storytelling. Each piece he creates carries not only his creative essence but also the enduring spirit of the Navajo people.