Keetahni Tyler

About Me

My artistic journey began at a young age alongside my twin brother as we watched our mother create beautiful heishi jewelry and sew traditional pieces. Inspired by her creativity, we learned to work with beads, paint, and other materials, developing a lifelong passion for art.

As children, we painted and created artwork while accompanying our mother to local shows and markets. My first major achievement came when I earned a second-place ribbon at the Northern Navajo Nation Fair art exhibition in Shiprock, New Mexico. That experience confirmed my desire to pursue art for the rest of my life.

A few years later, my mother encouraged us to participate in the prestigious Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA) Indian Market. There, we gained recognition for our paintings, earning multiple awards and meeting artists and collectors from around the world. The experience deepened my appreciation for Native art and continues to inspire my work today.

In 2023, after much prayer and reflection, I began my journey as a silversmith. Starting with simple tools and limited resources, I taught myself to transform silver into meaningful works of art. My first jewelry design, inspired by clouds and rain, reflected the guidance, visions, and prayers that continue to influence my creative process. Today, I work primarily with sterling silver and natural stones, especially turquoise, creating pieces that honor Navajo traditions while expressing my own contemporary artistic vision.

I believe that every artwork carries a spirit and a story. Through both my paintings and jewelry, I strive to create pieces that connect people to beauty, culture, and the living traditions that have shaped my life. Each creation is made with gratitude for my teachers, my family, and the blessings that guide my hands.