Artist Bryson Bobelu

Bryson Bobelu is a celebrated Zuni carver whose artistry has captured the spirit of his people for decades. Living in Zuni Pueblo with his wife Michela and son Devon, Artist Bryson Bobelu continues a family tradition of fetish carving that goes back generations. Bryson learned from his grandfather Saul Yuselew and uncle Harry Bewanika, watching them carefully carve bears, birds, and other traditional animals that hold deep spiritual significance. Today, Bryson’s carvings honor these ancient practices while sharing their power and beauty with the world.

Artist Bryson Bobelu: Life, Art, and Spiritual Legacy

Keshi (Greetings from Zuni)! My name is Bryson Bobelu of the Frog Clan, child of the Eagle Clan, and a proud member of the Zuni Pueblo. In the early 1970s, at 15 years old, I began observing my grandfather and uncle carve fetishes outdoors. Their skill and devotion amazed me, inspiring my own path as a carver. Learning that the late Leekya Deyusee, one of Zuni’s most famous fetish carvers, was my great-grandfather further connected me to this sacred craft.

I favor stones found in my homeland of Zuni, New Mexico, to create my carvings. My subjects include birds, reptiles, and the six powerful animals of our tradition: mountain lions, bears, badgers, wolves, coyotes, and bobcats. Each piece is infused with spiritual meaning, used by my people and other tribes for protection, hunting, and healing.

Artist Bryson Bobelu continues to hope that future generations of Zunis will keep this sacred practice alive. Through his carvings, he shares blessings and healing, honoring the past while inspiring the future.