Virtual Art Tour

Craig Dan Goseyun, Native American, born 1960

Going to Market

Craig Dan Goseyun, born in Hawaii while his father was stationed there with the Air Force, and grew up on the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Southwestern Arizona, where he learned the Apache ways from his grandfather, a medicine man, and his uncle, who was in charge of making and caring for the spirit dancers' costumes and paraphernalia.

Craig graduated from the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, after which he served a six-year apprenticeship with sculptor Allan Houser. Craig has won numerous awards for his sculpture, including best of show at the 1993 Santa Fe Indian Market for "Gahn Dancer #2" and a first place award at the 1993 Oklahoma City Red Earth Indian Art Market for his bronze.

Before beginning his "Mountain Spirit Dancers' Series," Craig received approval from the San Carlos medicine men. He explains, "Not everyone can do this. It would be dangerous without understanding what is going on. I prepare myself through rituals and I pray for protection."

As for his future work, Craig states, "I see my work as a contribution toward global peace; an expression of the quiet ancient part of man which still survives despite a fast changing world. My work is an attempt to preserve our native beliefs so that our children will always acknowledge them."