Abeyta (Navajo) | To’Hajiilee K’é Abeyta Family Exhibition, Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian
This exhibition chronicles a visual dialogue within an important Navajo family of artists, a father, son, and two daughters: Narciso Abeyta (1918–1998), Pablita Abeyta (1953-2017), Elizabeth Abeyta (1955–2006), and Tony Abeyta (b. 1965). Their story begins in 1918 and continues to the present. Each artist is/was a master of their field in their own right. Their works include paintings, sculptures, and jewelry that provide a cultural history and the distinctive perspective of two generations of Navajo life and art and a continuum in art practice and storytelling. The exhibition reveals autobiographic narratives, intimate and resonant moments through their unique contemporary techniques and styles.
The title references the Navajo word K’é, which means family and connections to love and compassion. The Abeyta family is originally from Cañoncito, New Mexico, currently known as To’Hajiilee, and is specific to the Cañoncito Band of Navajo, located West of Albuquerque. The father and children differ in content and style in many ways, but all four provide significant contemporary Navajo narratives. Their work connects to life on the Navajo reservation, the world outside of the Navajo’s four sacred mountains, and the family connection to specific historic times in the Native American Fine Art movement. Their work additionally celebrates the continuum of Hozhó, which means beauty, balance, harmony, and being at one with the world around you.
Museum Hours:
Tuesday – Saturday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Closed: Sunday & Monday
Masks are required inside the Museum.
Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian
704 Camino Lejo,
Santa Fe, NM 87505
(505) 982-4636 | (800) 607-4636
Closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day
Admission: $8.00
Free for Museum Members, Native Americans, children under 12, students with a valid ID, and active military.