Lauren Howland Water Protector Pendant

Cheryl Arviso is a Navajo (Diné) artist from Northwestern New Mexico. She spent her childhood between her home near the San Juan River and her grandparent’s homes in Nageezi, New Mexico and Huerfano, New Mexico (Blanco Canyon Area).

At a very young age, Cheryl was introduced to the world of silversmithing by her parents J.P. Arviso and Lorraine Hesuse. She was born into the art form, and began an apprenticeship under her parents that lasted until the early 1990’s (a story in itself and maybe, just maybe, she might tell you!) During the early 1980’s, she began her participation in the Santa Fe Indian Market with her mother. This began a tradition that lasted for over 30 years. In the same time period Cheryl also presented her art at the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market in Phoenix, Arizona, the Eiteljorg Indian Market and Festival in Indianapolis, Indiana, and a one-time visit to the Autry Museum of the American West’s American Indian Arts Marketplace in Los Angeles, California.

Cheryl’s style is influenced by all things that she is exposed to on a daily basis. You’ll find Navajo rug designs, inspired by the time spent with her grandmothers as they wove their beautiful rugs. Another design might have some filigree techniques (leaves, raindrops, flowers, and vines) with colorful natural stones and shells, influenced by the wonderful ever-changing landscapes in Santa Fe and the surrounding areas.

In almost every piece there is a symbol representing water. This comes from her time growing up near Tótah (Three Rivers) and spending so much time near water. Much of the art Cheryl creates are unique, one one-of-a-kind pieces that often express her environment. At times there are a few designs she will make more than just one, but they will still be handmade therefore still one-of-a-kind pieces.