Victor Beck, Diné of the Navajo Nation Jeweler
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Award winning artist Victor Beck is a person who takes great pride in sharing his culture. As a Diné of the Navajo Nation he identifies himself as a member of the Many Goat Clan and Born for the Salt - Ashii Clan. He credits his parents, Esther and Clifford Beck, guidance to use his cultural beliefs to find his path in life. He believes the longevity of his 30-year career may be due to his clean, simple, lines found in his bolos and buckles. Often, people describe his work as contemporary, elegant classic pieces such as his limited-edition gold coral necklace, bracelets, and his side inlay rings.
Victor happened upon his jewelry making while taking a required course to fulfill his ceramics study in 1975. Fortunately, Victor always seemed to have good opportunities to present themselves. Next, came an internship with the Museum of Northern Arizona, who in conjunction with Northern Arizona University, offered him an internship in silver and metal smith. After his internship, he was offered a scholarship to attend the State University of New York In New Paltz. There he learned the techniques he now uses in his jewelry making.
Victor P. Beck (1940- ) has garnered many prestigious awards. As a result, he has been presented in numerous publications. He has been honored with the Ted Charveze Memorial Award, Best of Division and Best of Classification in Jewelry from the Heard Museum. Recently, he was published in the May 2003 Arizona Highways and was selected as an Arizona Living Treasure in October 2003 for his contribution in preserving his culture through his artwork.