Tommy Singer
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- Tommy Singer is known throughout the world for his jewelry work. His overlay pieces incorporate the most traditional of Navajo design - designs that have endured for years and years. Many of these designs are of Navajo rugs and other traditional designs. He is a Navajo from Winslow, Arizona. He said, "Every piece is made with the meanings from my traditional ways - the Navajo way of living, my father was a silversmith. He taught me and wanted me to continue this trade. It was my father's dream that I learn to silversmith so that I can continue his belief".
Tommy Singer is a well-known silversmith who specializes in Navajo jewelry. His inlaid turquoise, coral, & silver pieces incorporate the most traditional of Navajo design - designs that have endured for many years. Many of these designs are of traditional Navajo rugs and other timeless designs. Mr. Singer gained acclaim as the originator of the chip inlay design which he developed in the 1970s. A simple piece by Tommy Singer purchased in Taos in the 1980's
Mr. Singer is a member of the Navajo tribe from Winslow, Arizona. He perfected his craft working on the Navajo reservation in a small studio surrounded with his family and other tribal members. He was also somewhat controversial for his ability and desire to sell his work outside of the reservation and for working so closely with many whites, even hiring such to work with him on the reservation - unheard of in the mid-1970s. He was truly ahead of his times in many ways!
When asked about his work, Tommy has said,"Every piece is made with the various meanings from my traditional ways - the Navajo way of living. My father was a silversmith, too. He taught me, and wanted me to continue this trade. It was my father's dream that I learn to silversmith so that I could continue his beliefs."
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