Meet Jerrel Singer: Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jerrel Singer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jerrel, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Tuba City, and reside in Flagstaff, AZ. I’m Diné(Navajo) my upbringing was to care the land and the land will take care of you. My dad was a rancher and took part in Rodeos. He instilled work ethic of hard work and taking care of one another.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m known for my vibrant flowing colors, my paintings reflect issues faced by the Navajo people, including uranium mining. My art is sending a message that is tied to the land and my people living on the reservation, a message that needs to be heard more now then ever. A dispatch of significance as it not only comes from me it derives from his home, the place of his birth. The impactful art of myself and the message im are shouting is one to hear. Stop, pay homage and listen to what is being spoken.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting me, I would take them for a wonderful breakfast at Martannes in downtown Flagstaff, and enjoy the Emmett so tasty. Next we would also stop by The Heart box to see the art and talk with Jill Sans after that hike up Fatman loop and enjoy the scenery of the land, lunch would be at Uptown Pubhouse and talk with James and all wonderful people who take care of the place. The next day we would see the beautiful weather and sights at the Grand Canyon, hike around and eat some food at Cameron Trading Post,enjoy the scenery of my home. We would also see the beautiful murals along Highway 89 that I was proud to be a part of with the Painted Desert Project. Jetsorama aka Chip Thomas has created a great collection of artist and himself to make the world better.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are a lot of people who have been a major influence on me, but I wanna give a big thanks to Buddy aka Bahe Whitethorne Jr. We used to bounce ideas of off each other and help one another grow as an artist, and as a person. Sadly he is no longer with us he made his journey to the next world. I miss talking with him and exploring ideas. Second I would like to thank all the artists in Rumble on the Mountain it is a group effort that showcased our art and culture. Our main concern was to raise awareness about Uranium mining, Saving the Peaks and Indigenous rights here on the Colorado Plateau.

Website: Artofthepeople.org
Instagram: Jerrelsingerart
Facebook: Jerrelsingerart
Other: Jetsonorama.net Art in the 48 on PBS Rumble on the Mountain on Facebook