Vintage Navajo Sandpainting Bear & Kokopelli by Virginia Tyler

Authentic and beautifully detailed Navajo-style sandpainting by artist Virginia Tyler, featuring a central bear figure flanked by two Kokopelli—one on each side. This striking composition blends traditional symbolism with vibrant natural color tones, making it both visually captivating and culturally meaningful. Sandpaintings are an important part of Navajo sandpainting, traditionally created for healing ceremonies and rich in symbolism. Each element carries spiritual meaning and reflects harmony with nature. Common motifs include yeis (holy beings), sacred plants, animals, and natural elements like rainbows and birds. In this piece, the bear is often seen as a symbol of strength, protection, and healing, while Kokopelli—a well-known figure in Southwestern and Hopi culture and Navajo traditions—is associated with fertility, joy, music, and storytelling. Together, these elements create a powerful narrative of balance, vitality, and well-being. Traditional sandpaintings use naturally sourced materials: crushed colored rocks, minerals, flower petals, cornmeal, charcoal, and other organic elements. Colors like blue and green come from mineral ores, reds and oranges from plant materials, and yellows from cornmeal—giving each piece its earthy vibrancy. This artwork is handmade and signed on the back (“Bear” with initials V.T.) In great condition, about size: 6” x 6” ready to display or frame Pick up downtown Calgary, parking available, cash only please