Philbert Begay
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TRIBAL AFFILIATION: Navajo
MEDIUM: Jewelry
BIOGRAPHY
Philbert Begay is a member of Kinlichinii Natoh Dine’, the Redhouse Tobacco Clan, and he is the son of noted Navajo silversmith Richard Begay. His father was his biggest influence, and he also has been influenced by his uncle Victor Beck, uncle Patrick Taylor and James Little. Philbert learned silver work from his father by polishing and finishing pieces for him as a young boy. He started making jewelry when he was 14 years old, and went out on his own at age 21.
After attending the Colorado Institute of Art, Philbert began working with his father part-time and is now a full-time silversmith specializing in sterling silver and 14K gold contemporary Navajo jewelry.
