gallupARTS is pleased to present “Legacy of Creation,” by Christian Bigwater, at ART123 Gallery in downtown Gallup, NM, running from July 12 through August 2.

Christian Bigwater is Diné (Navajo), of the Kinlicheeni Clan (Red House-Zia) and born for the Totsonii Clan (Big Water). He hails from Canyon De Chelly, Arizona, on the Navajo Nation.

His family’s Canyon De Chelly ranch impressed upon Bigwater the scenes of horses, the rich, red landscapes of the red canyon walls, the curves in the cedar tree form, and the clear, blue sky of the Navajo Nation. These elements of Navajo day-to- day life are the essentials in Bigwater’s art. Bigwater has also expanded his practice to include other influences such as abstract and digital art.

“This show is about art and how it brings generations together. It explores the creative dynamics within families. I think it is interesting to see how those shared family experiences are written visually through art,” says Bigwater.

“Christian is an innovative artist, carrying cultural traditions forward and iterating on essential forms and concepts. This show adds dimension to that approach, bringing in the next generation to consider how traditions are translated and transformed through the ages,” says gallupARTS Executive Director Rose Eason.

“Legacy of Creation” will open on Saturday, July 12, from 7 – 9pm. Bigwater will present a free artist talk at ART123 Gallery on Thursday, July 17, at 6pm.