Alfred Joe

In 2011 when Al Joe was named Artist of the Year by the Indian Arts and Crafts Association, he had come a long way from his childhood in Winslow, Arizona. As the eldest of 9 children, Al had never really planned on becoming an artist. While attending Northern Arizona University he took his first jewelry class and then in his 2nd year, his uncle Colbert Joe, Sr. took him under his wing and taught his nephew the basics of jewelry making.

Al is an artist who likes to experiment. His work is a combination of traditional and contemporary. Using modern techniques such as hollow forming, raising metal, and overlay using silver dust, Al creates striking silver and gold beads and picture perfect curves. Known for his exquisite necklaces, double-sided pendants and beautiful stones in particular, Al has won numerous awards over the years. His work can be found in permanent collections both private and public from coast to coast.