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Harry Benally
born 1951 Shiprock, New Mexico; lives Sheep Springs, New Mexico
Person TypeIndividual
BiographyHarry Benally is noted for his fine woodcarvings and silversmith work. Harry is a self-taught Navajo artist born in Shiprock, New Mexico on the Navajo reservation. He is a member of the Salt (Ashiihi) clan. LadyMae Dentclaw Benally (Harry's mother) was a renowned rug weaver, and it was from her that he learned a keen sense of design. He also learned patience and the importance of paying attention to detail, as all are requirements in creating high-quality woodcarvings and jewelry. He has been carving juniper and cottonwood roots, and aspen trees for about 18 years.