Begay, Alice

When people talk about Burnham weaving today, Alice Begay's name always comes up. She was the first of the Begay sisters to step away from the traditional regional styles and begin combining patterns from across the reservation with pictorial elements of her own. Before long, her sisters, cousins, and eventually many other weavers were doing the same, and what collectors now know as the Burnham style was born.

Alice's innovative approach inspired not only her four sisters but also an extended network of relatives and other weavers throughout the region. Today, the Burnham style is recognized for its imaginative storytelling, intricate borders, and masterful combination of traditional motifs with scenes of everyday Navajo life. Although many artists have adopted elements of the style, Alice's work remains immediately recognizable for its thoughtful compositions, exceptional craftsmanship, and the use of natural, hand-spun wool.

Together, Alice and her sisters established what collectors now recognize as the Burnham style, a tradition that continues through their children, nieces, nephews, and other weavers throughout the Burnham Chapter. Although many artists have embraced the style, Alice's work remains its benchmark—celebrated for its originality, technical excellence, and richly detailed narratives that honor both Diné tradition and the evolving art of Navajo weaving.

To learn more about the history, characteristics, and evolution of this remarkable weaving tradition, explore our Burnham Weavings collection.