Jesse Monongya
(1952 - 2024)Jesse Monongya grew up on the Navajo Reservation with his adoptive parents, who were distant relatives of the artist. He was influenced by art at a very early age, especially traditional art. Jesse found that he connected deeply with the traditional Navajo way of life, all of which profoundly influenced his path to becoming an artist. He was able to observe the weavers at Two Grey Hills from an early age.
Jesse became one of the most intricate inlay artists of our time, some of which was influenced by his father Preston. Jesse did not know of or meet his father until he was 21. After their meeting, Jesse and Preston were able to collaborate on many pieces of jewelry.
Jesse has won awards throughout the Southwest and continues to pursue his career as a lapidary master.