Begay has stayed tuned to his heritage through his paintings and has somewhat enlightened us in regards to his native religion, however, as to be expected, there are many aspects of the Diné ceremonials of which we are not well informed. This image is a good example. The Dark God figure is probably a participant at a healing ceremony, perhaps the Night Dance but that is not known. Suffice it to say that this presentation can be accepted for its artistic merits.

Begay was born in 1914 on the Navajo (Diné) Reservation. He attended the Santa Fe Indian School and studied under art teacher Dorothy Dunn. His distinctive style of painting has been popular for over 75 years. His art has influenced entire generations of Native American painters.

Above the head of the Dark God is a Buffalo Shield which may represent the sun spirit hovering, protecting him as well as all who are part of the ceremony. Clouds and rain are evident.

This painting is a powerful reminder of the ability of the Diné to stay connected to the old ways while living in the twenty first century. It is signed in lower left with the Diné name of the artist and on the right with his English name. The painting is matted but not framed. It is shrink-wrapped for protection. It was painted in the 1980s.

This painting and our item number C3135E would make a beautiful pair. Each is a single Diné religious figure and the two were painted in similar fashion.