Sand Paintings

A ceremonial art made permanent

In Navajo (Diné) tradition, sand paintings are created and destroyed within healing ceremonies. The commercial art form adapts this practice respectfully: artists trickle naturally colored sands — ground stone, ochre, charcoal — onto an adhesive-coated board to create lasting compositions of Yei figures, the four sacred plants, and other motifs. Out of reverence, artists typically alter sacred designs slightly so ceremonial images are never reproduced exactly.

Documented with care

Many of our sand paintings come to us directly from the Navajo artists who made them. We document the imagery, and the maker wherever known, so collectors understand the work's meaning.

Displaying sand paintings

Sand is light- and humidity-sensitive. Hang framed pieces out of direct sunlight, keep them level, and dust the frame rather than the surface to preserve the colors and texture.