Awa Tsireh

Awa Tsireh (February 1, 1898 – March 30, 1955),[2] also known as Alfonso Roybal[3] and Cattail Bird, was a San Ildefonso Pueblo painter and artist in several genres including metalwork.

His formal education ended at grade school but he drew from his culture and informal training.

[9][10] In 1917, American artist William Penhallow Henderson painted a portrait of young Awa Tsireh, which is now held by the New Mexico Museum of Art.

[7] Awa Tsireh had the support of Dr. Edgar Lee Hewett, who provided studio space for him in the Palace of the Governors.

[7] His sister, Santana Martinez, recalled that "during the summer during the thirties and forties he used to go to a shop in Colorado Springs and do paintings and silverwork there.

"Eagle with Snake", circa 1927. This painting was in the collection of William and Alice Corbin Henderson. The artist's access to the Hendersons' art books may have influenced this and other of his works. [ 1 ]
Four silver pins made by Awa Tsireh in the 1930s while he was working at Garden of the Gods Trading Post. [ 7 ]