SWAIA ARTIST Profile

Ernie Lister

Name
Ernie Lister
Tribe
Navajo Nation
Main Classification
Jewelry
Classification #2
Classification #3
Website

SWAIA Booth Numbers

Summer 2024
PLZ 91
Winter 2024
Ernie Lister
Portfolio Example & Artist Statement

The forging techniques I use to create my unique pieces are very much like what the early Navajo smiths developed over 150 years ago. This unique methodology was their way of creating beauty amidst a time of war and chaos in a very harsh environment. These early metallurgists often built their own primitive furnaces, then melted scrap precious metal and coins to hammer out bracelets, belts, rings and necklaces. Here, I employ the same approach and manner to make my these collectible items.Using the bare minimum of tools and powerful machines, I begin the jewelry creation by creating my own useable materials; like ingot blanks and pulled wire to emulate the techniques and styles used by early jewelers. After this, using limited amounts of modern space age tools, employed in manufacturing to day, I shape, hammer, anneal, stamp these one of a kind pieces.

2024 Portfolio

View the artist's portfolio for this year.
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