Original Painting “Conversations” by Anthony Chee Emerson

"Conversations" by Diné of the Navajo Nation artist Anthony Chee Emerson is an original acrylic painting on paper signed and dated 1985 on the lower right-hand edge. The piece is painted on a full sheet of hot pressed watercolor paper, extending to the edges and clipped into place, creating a striking floating effect within its frame.

The composition consists of men and women in profile engaged in conversation. The men wear hats and turquoise necklaces with jaclas, while the women are adorned with turquoise medallion necklaces and dresses featuring intricate diamonds and patterns reminiscent of Navajo textiles. All the figures wear concho belts, further unifying the design. Emerson masterfully uses patterning to guide the viewer's eye throughout the composition, enhancing visual rhythm and movement. A striking color transition occurs within the figures' clothing — dusty violet tones appear at the bottom, shifting to blue in the middle, and finally evolving into green at the top. This seamless gradation adds a dynamic harmony, reinforcing Emerson's signature artistic style.

"Conversations" exemplifies Emerson's ability to merge storytelling with design, celebrating cultural identity through a rich interplay of color, pattern, and form.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Original Painting "Conversations" by Anthony Chee Emerson is from a collector in Albuquerque

Recommended Reading: Navajo Painting by Katherin Chase

TAGS: Diné of the Navajo Nation, Paintings, Anthony Chee Emerson