We are excited to announce that we are now showing the outstanding work of photographer John Craig!

This rich and meaningful exhibit takes us on an in-depth exploration of the Canyon de Chelly National Monument in the four corners region of Arizona, and the Navajo people who live there today.  The place itself served as the conceptual inspiration for Craig, who describes the project as , “…a geoscape concept. It is a unique environment where both human and geological evolutions were visible; coexisting in a spectacular, intimate relationship.”

Juanita Hunter standing in front of petroglyphs on the canyon wall 1983

Craig has been studying the region and its people since 1982, but only now has chosen to make his exhibit debut in his hometown, as he has showcase his work locally, nationally, and internationally..  What began as a trip to meet a Navajo family turned into an annual visit from Craig, complete with images from the previous years to show the family, and adventures such as sheep herding and quicksand escapes in an old pickup truck. 

The resulting images comprise this incredible exhibit.  This bond with the land, nature, and the people is reflected in Craig’s imagery, which synthesizes concepts from anthropology, philosophy, geology, and aesthetics.

Craig employs a range of mediums in his work, including intaglio printmaking, photogravure, Polaroid, gelatin silver, and digital imaging.

Vista Point, Photogravure/ Etching by John Craig

Through these techniques and his manipulation of them, he aims to convey the compression of space and time found in various geologic formations.

John Craig has taught Fine Art Photography since 1972 at Pensacola Junior College, Florida, Franconia College, New Hampshire, Art Institute of Chicago, the University of Michigan and the University of Connecticut. 

 John Craig and his printing press Nipomo, CA

He is now retired as a Professor Emeritus from the University of Connecticut.   John has exhibited his work nationally and internationally, participating in Artists-In-Residences at Anderson Ranch Center for the Arts, Colorado, Penland, North Carolina, Day Spring Graphics, New Mexico, Fine Arts Academy Krakow, Poland and the Center for Indian Culture, Auroville, India. 

The opening of this special event takes place on January 22nd at 1PM at Dana Adobe and Cultural Center.  There will be light appetizers and a special presentation by John Craig.

You can experience one-of a kind moments like this and many more for FREE by joining us as a member at Dana Adobe!  We are proud to offer both historical and cultural exhibits that educate our community, as well as opportunities to apply that education in real- life experiences on the Adobe.  Our memberships are perfect for families, couples and single people of all ages who want to learn and give back.

Click the LINK to learn more, and we can’t wait to see you at our new exhibit, Photography of My Diné (Navajo) Family and images of the Southwestern Landscape!