A Posting by Michelle SalabiyeEmerging Artisan, Moccasin Maker, NCAC Cohort 2016/17 Ya’at’eeh shik’ei doo shidine’e! Shi ei Michelle J. Salabiye yinishe. Maiideeshgizhnii nishli, Naakai Dine’e bashishchiin, Tsi’ naajinii dashicheii, Todich’ii’nii dashinali. I was raised in a small modest Rez town known as Nazlini, Arizona. I have a baby Maii named Noah Johnson, whom I lovingly call my son. I am an Emerging Artisan in the Navajo Cultural Arts Certificate Program and majoring in General Science here at Dine College. I also work with Aramark here on Tsaile campus. My emphasis of choice is moccasin making. Or perhaps better explained by our NCAC instructor - Moccasin Making chose me! I am honored to be instructed by the famous and humble Mr. Harry Walters, who instilled the Navajo principles and stories behind the moccasin. Mr. Walters also provided historical insights as he was an Archaeologist and who also developed the Museum and the Archive building here in Dine College. It’s safe to say we learn a handsome amount of Navajo stories, philosophies and historical background. We couldn’t have had a better instructor!
1 Comment
3/13/2018 07:34:52 pm
Thank you for sharing your wonderful gift of moccasin making with us. I like that you are really learning a lot about the cultural side of the art. Harry Walters is really a great instructor. I have known him for many years. I myself, am a moccasin maker. The art chose me when I was very young I guess, but my Naalii lady was a moccasin maker and I grew up watching her do her work. It was my own interest and motivation that got me into making moccasins. I thought the whole idea was just NEAT! I could not wait until I could make a pair! Now some 40 years later, I still continue to make moccasins for local people. Occasionally I will make a pair for someone off the rez. I wish you well as you continue to learn and hone your skills. I have no doubt that you will grow and have success in the future. Thanks Again!
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