Texas Band of Yaqui Indians
Preserving Our Legacy through Culture, Language, History and Ceremony
Tribal Artisans
Welcome to our Tribal Artisans page - a gathering place where the heart and heritage of our community shine.
Our artists and authors draw on tradition, spirit, and lived experience to create one-of-a-kind works, from the gentle arc of each brushstroke to the final bead placed by hand. Every creation carries our stories, celebrating the beauty and resilience of our people
Yaqui Artisans & Culture
Elisha Suarez, Texas Yaqui and Apache is a dedicated member of the Texas Band of Yaqui Indians and a founding member of the Sage Clan Women’s Society. Proud of her Yaqui and Apache heritage, Elisha has honed her skills as a beadwork artist over many years, drawing on deep cultural traditions to create unique and meaningful designs. Her beadwork is recognized for its one-of-a-kind patterns, each piece thoughtfully inspired by tribal symbols and motifs that reflect the histories and stories of her ancestors.
Her commitment to traditional arts not only preserves valuable knowledge but also inspires younger generations to discover and maintain their own heritage. Elisha actively engages with other artists in the community, sharing techniques, collaborating on projects, and strengthening the cultural fabric of the Texas Band of Yaqui Indians.
Through her role with the Sage Clan Women’s Society, Elisha supports community empowerment, cultural education, and advocacy for Native women and families, ensuring that the legacy of Indigenous art and leadership endures for future generations
ART DANCE WOOD CLAY DESIGN FASHION POETRY MUSIC VOICE POTTERY BASKETRY JEWLERY
Elisha Suarez
Elisha’s artistry extends beyond beadwork; she also works with clay and other mediums, like acrylic paint. Continually exploring new ways to express Yaqui and Apache culture through her one of a kind , handmade creations.
Healing Forest Jewelry
by Emily Begay
original handmade designs
The Beautiful art of Emily Begay stems from one of a kind protection "Kookam" necklaces known as Ojo de Venado or Maso Kookam.
Other pieces are beautifully designed charms and necklaces.
"A number of my jewelry items go to support Native programs like the Navajo Water Project, Adopt a Native Elder, White Bison and Texas Band of Yaqui Indians"
Meet the Authors & Poets
ART DANCE WOOD CLAY DESIGN FASHION SPEAKERS POETRY MUSIC VOICE POTTERY BASKETRY JEWLERY AUTHORS
Monolin ('Manny') Moreno
Yaqui Tribal Author
"Scared coming full circle" An author’s account of his impoverished life and fighting with alcoholism and drugs, to finding his Indigenous identity as a Yaqui Indian, hidden from him until he begins the search for his heritage.
Raised in the San Joaquin valley in Stockton and Livingston, California, the author overcomes his adversities to find his role in the Indian world, as a spiritual leader, in ceremonies and helping in the community. A powerful story of never surrendering.
Also "The Elder" a tribute to elders. It is about my years knowing these Native American leaders in the community around central California helping people recover from alcohol and substance abuse. It is an easy read but touches on the importance of elders in our society. and newest publication "Longview Road"
Explore THE ARTISTRY OF DANCE
SAM AROS MITCHELL
Sam is an interdisciplinary artist, scholar, and cultural producer whose work centers Indigenous ceremony and embodied knowledge through performance, installation, and print.
He is a dancer, director, actor, and choreographer, as well as founder of SAROS Field/Works, a Minneapolis-based platform supporting Indigenous and BIPOC contemporary performance.
Sam produces Indigenous arts festivals and is the owner of Aros and Son Press, an independent publishing house amplifying Native voices, memory, and creative sovereignty.