My name is Waya’aisiwa and I am Eagle clan (Dyaami) from Acoma Pueblo on my mother’s side. On my father’s side I am Dine, Red streak extending into the water clan (Taachiini). My english name is Gary Keene. I am a self taught artist, drawing since 1968 and have no formal training. I have been on a recovery path and grateful for my sobriety since 1985. The Pueblo of Acoma is where I make my home. I am a Vietnam Veteran having served in the U.S. Navy as a parachute packer.

“People say my work is medicine for the soul. When I do my pieces I aim for the heart and I aim for the mind. I remind people of what is important in our lives. Today, it is so easy to lose focus because there are so many distractions. I choose India ink as a medium because I am challenged when I make a mistake. Each of my pieces has a story relating to the title, designs and/or the purpose of its creation. All of my work is copyrighted. My trademark is the red headband and/or the red arrowheads at the bottom of the piece.”