In a captivating collaboration between tradition and technology, visiting Navajo artists Zefren Anderson and Robert Blackhat Jr. shared their profound expertise with Stanford Arts Intensive students during a transformative two-and-a-half-day workshop this summer. The artists seamlessly blended cutting-edge technology with techniques honed over thousands of years, providing students with a unique opportunity to delve into the rich legacy of Navajo artistry.
Recently, the visiting artists immersed themselves in the 13-day Arts Intensive course, working closely with students to complete intricate silver jewelry projects. From twisting wire to crafting delicate filigree, soldering pieces, and setting gemstones, Anderson and Blackhat Jr. guided the students in mastering techniques that celebrate the timeless art of jewelry design.
Arts Intensive, a three-week program held annually before the academic year, offers rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors a project-based, hands-on arts class. Despite artistic training or experience, students have the opportunity to focus intensely on their craft, encouraged by guest artists like Anderson and Blackhat Jr. Amanda Knox Sather, a lecturer with the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Arts Intensive, notes that the program provides a unique and freeing experience, allowing students to embark on a personal artistic journey.
Jewelry, as personal adornment, becomes an accessible entry point into the world of arts for students who might feel intimidated by other forms. Sather emphasizes that the intimate connection with jewelry design enables students to overcome the hurdles of intimidation and immediately invest in the creative process.
Robert Blackhat Jr., drawing from techniques passed down through generations, shared his expertise with students. His mother, who learned silversmithing from her father, imparted the intricate art to Blackhat Jr. as a child. The artists’ visit not only focused on skill-building but also provided a cultural exchange, enlightening students about the sacredness of the craft and its roots in Navajo culture.
The collaboration, years in the making, brought together Stanford Arts Intensive and Change Labs, an organization supporting entrepreneurship and innovation in the Navajo Nation. The artists’ visit culminated with an offering to the ocean, symbolizing the end of the workshop. Students joined Blackhat Jr. at Pomponio Beach, gaining insights into the sacredness of the site and the significance of the ritual.
Heather Fleming, co-founder and executive director of Change Labs, expressed the value of collaborations that bring individuals committed to their craft with passion and different perspectives. Sather highlights the enrichment these experiences provide to students across various majors, cultures, and backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
The artists, Zefren Anderson and Robert Blackhat Jr., aspire to leave students with a profound sense of hope, satisfaction, and altruism. Anderson emphasizes the core philosophy of Navajo culture reflected in the creative cycle of thought, planning, creating, and revising jewelry fabrication.
Anderson’s own commitment to continuing his education aligns with the overarching theme of the workshop – a continuous learning cycle that enhances understanding, culture, and art. The collaboration not only benefits students but also offers visiting artists a platform to share new tools and techniques.
Amanda Knox Sather looks forward to exploring how collaborations like this can further benefit both students and visiting artists. The unique learning experience provided by Arts Intensive serves as a quick window into a transformative artistic journey, making it a valuable addition to Stanford’s academic offerings.
