1957-
A Reflection of Earth and Spirit
EMMI WHITEHORSE
Coral Bed // 2023
EARLY LIFE AND INFLUENCES
Emmi Whitehorse, a celebrated artist of Navajo heritage, was born in 1957 in Crownpoint, New Mexico. Her upbringing in the expansive landscapes of the American Southwest deeply influenced her artistic vision. Raised in a family that spoke only the Navajo language, Whitehorse's early life was steeped in the cultural traditions of her people.
Her grandmother, a traditional Navajo weaver, played a pivotal role in shaping her artistic sensibilities. The intricate patterns and the philosophy of Hózhó—a Navajo concept signifying harmony and balance—became foundational to Whitehorse's work. Her early experiences with the land and her cultural heritage laid the groundwork for a career that would blend traditional Navajo themes with modern abstract art.
EDUCATION & ARTISTIC DEVELOPMENT
Whitehorse pursued her formal education in art at the University of New Mexico, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Painting in 1980 and a Master of Arts in Printmaking in 1982. During her studies, she joined the Grey Canyon Group, a collective of Native American artists who challenged conventional expectations of Indigenous art.
This group, led by Jaune Quick-To-See Smith, was instrumental in redefining the genre of Contemporary Native American Art. Whitehorse's education and involvement with the Grey Canyon Group encouraged her to explore abstraction, allowing her to express Indigenous themes through a modernist lens. Her academic and collaborative experiences were crucial in developing her unique artistic style, which marries abstract expression with Navajo cosmology.
#931 // 1992
Chanter // 1991
ARTISTIC STYLE & TECHNIQUE
Whitehorse is renowned for her abstract, atmospheric compositions that evoke the landscapes of the Southwest. Her work is characterised by gestural marks and fields of colour that suggest the natural world without directly representing it. This abstract approach allows her to convey the essence of the land and its spiritual significance.
Her paintings often involve layers of oil on paper, mounted on canvas, creating a sense of depth and movement. Whitehorse's technique is deeply meditative, reflecting the Navajo philosophy of Hózhó. She describes her process as one of continuous movement and exploration, where the orientation of the work is not predetermined, allowing for a spontaneous and organic creation.
The Ruling Hand
THEMES & PHILOSOPHY
The central theme of Whitehorse's work is the interconnectedness of land, life, and spirit. Her art embodies the Navajo belief in the harmony between humans and nature. By using abstract forms, she captures the subtle shifts in light, space, and colour that define the natural world.
Her paintings are not just visual experiences but are imbued with the spiritual and philosophical tenets of her culture. This focus on harmony and balance is a reflection of Hózhó, which guides her artistic vision. Whitehorse's work is deliberately apolitical, yet it resonates with themes of ecological awareness and cultural preservation, making it both timeless and relevant.
Two Standing Women // 1967
IMPACT AND LEGACY
Emmi Whitehorse's impact on the art world is profound. Her ability to blend traditional Navajo themes with contemporary abstract art has earned her a place among the most respected Native American artists.
Her work is featured in prestigious collections worldwide, including the Brooklyn Museum of Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art. Whitehorse's participation in international exhibitions, such as the Venice Biennale, has further solidified her status as a significant figure in contemporary art. Her art not only challenges the boundaries of abstraction but also serves as a testament to the enduring power of Indigenous cultural expression.
White Shell Woman's Story #771 // 1989
Green Wood // 1996
CONTINUING INFLUENCE
Whitehorse's influence extends beyond her artistic contributions. As an Indigenous artist, she plays a crucial role in representing and preserving Navajo culture in the global art scene. Her work inspires new generations of artists to explore their cultural identities through contemporary mediums.
By maintaining a focus on beauty, peace, and harmony, Whitehorse's art encourages viewers to reconnect with nature and appreciate the subtle complexities of the world around them. Her legacy is one of innovation, cultural dialogue, and a deep respect for the land and its stories, ensuring her place as a transformative figure in the art world