Hope Etsitty
Navajo
Hope Aquila Etsitty, born in Gallup, New Mexico, comes from a lineage deeply rooted in the art of jewelry making, with her family playing a central role in shaping her passion. Growing up amidst Gallup's bustling artistic atmosphere, she found herself captivated by the celestial beauty of the stars and the moon, which became profound sources of inspiration for her distinctive jewelry creations.
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Her upbringing was particularly influenced by her parents, Veronica Benally and stepfather Ernest Benally, both revered artisans whose expertise in jewelry making laid the foundation for Hope's own artistic journey. Beyond her craft, she finds joy in various artistic pursuits such as sketching and indulges in the rhythmic melodies of music. Additionally, she embraces the thrill of sports, finding solace and camaraderie in the fields of basketball and baseball.
Through her work, Hope seamlessly intertwines traditional Navajo techniques with contemporary aesthetics, thus creating pieces that not only showcase her skill but also honor the rich cultural heritage of the Southwest.