Sammie Charlie, Alan Charlie’s grandfather, served in the Marines during the Korean War which lasted from 1950 to 1953. The artist’s latest series is from his memory and the memory of all 800 Navajo soldiers who served in Korea and those who continue to serve. The paintings were inspired by stories from Alan’s father, photos taken of his grandfather and research done on the war. The art style was inspired by So Yun-bok’s pen and ink depictions of daily life. As Alan honors Sammie Charlie, he invites you to honor those in your family who served by sharing pictures and memorabilia during the show.
Born in Gallup, NM and raised on the Navajo reservation, Alan Charlie had an early interest in art that was well expressed throughout his childhood drawings. After graduating from Crownpoint High School, he attended Central New Mexico Community College, where he obtained his Computer Animation and Fine Arts degrees. He joined Wild Hearts Gallery as an artist in 2020. Versed in multiple media, Alan mostly does realistic oil paintings devoted to the scenes that define the land and people who shaped his upbringing.
“My Grandfather was so excited when he first viewed one of my paintings; he kept saying ‘You did that, that’s really good.’ My grandfather used to paint in watercolor when he was young,” said Charlie.
The artist’s reception will be celebrated with fellowship and refreshments on Saturday, May 4, 1-3 pm. A First Sunday ARTScrawl Meet the Artist event kicks off the month on May 5, from 10 am to 2 pm. Come by for a cup of specialty coffee and visit. You can also take a visual tour of this exhibit and the gallery by visiting wildheartsgallery.com.