Navajo Folk Art Wood Carving “Man on Motorcycle” [R]

Juan has been carving the cottonwood he finds along the creek beds of the San Juan River for over 35 years.  He was born in Lake Valley and became interested in making art while observing his uncle, Johnson Antonio, a Navajo folk art artist.  He remembers that he cut wood for Antonio and ran errands for him in the beginning.  Juan's goal is to become self-sufficient as an artist, but he has been working on and off in construction for support. 

"I just try to keep it going," the artist explained to the Rosenaks, "showing the joys of reservation life and Navajo people at gatherings, ceremonies, and just the fun of friends being together at local posts.  I carve the older people and show how they are dressed ... and sporting their best jewelry." 

Juan's carvings can be more serious at times as he captures the older generation but also his generation at work, riding motorcycles, or just hanging out.  In winter, when the Yeis are dancing, he will sometimes place his subjects at ceremonies—his goal is highlighting the stories of his people.

This carving of a Navajo male riding a motorcycle is an excellent example of the fine carving seen in Juan's  work. The details shown in the tires and the engine compartment are exceptional.  The overall proportion of rider and vehicle is to scale.

Condition: original condition

Provenance: from the collection of Jan and Chuck Rosenak. Published in Navajo Folk Art by Chuck and Jan Rosenak, page 63

Recommended Reading: Navajo Folk Art by Chuck and Jan Rosenak