Navajo Sand Painting
ArtistNavajo healers
YearAncient tradition
MediumColored sand
LocationCeremonial, destroyed after use
About Navajo Sand Painting
Created during healing ceremonies and destroyed when complete. Sand is trickled onto the ground using the thumb and forefinger. Colors come from crushed minerals: red sandstone, white gypsum, yellow ochre. Each painting summons specific holy people. Photographing authentic ceremonial paintings is forbidden.