Michael Kirk

Michael Kirk knows about striving to create his best work whether serving as a Marine in Vietnam or creating some of the finest contemporary jewelry in the American Indian art world.  Learning from his older brother, Andy Lee Kirk, Michael has achieved excellence in gold and silver work, creating pieces using mosaic inlay, tufa casting, or the almost lost art of hand-rolled bead making.

Along with Michael's brother, Andy, other fine jewelry artists played significant roles in the development of Michael’s style.  The simple elegant forms of fellow Isleta artist, Ted Charveze; the contemporary directions taken by Gibson Nez; the technical artistry of Jake Livingston; and magical handiwork of Pierre Tourraine each influenced the direction Michael would take with his own jewelry.

Upon returning from Vietnam in 1971, Andy suggested Michael turn his attention to jewelry making.  We are all richer for his decision.  Michael has won first place honors at the Gallup Inter-tribal Indian Ceremonial as well as Best of Division at Santa Fe Indian Market.  In 1997, the Indian Arts and Crafts Association bestowed Artist of the Year honors on Michael.

Michael Kirk’s jewelry reflects the richness which surrounds him every day whether it be from his own religion and culture or the natural beauty of the Rio Grande valley.  We are featuring Michael’s feather work.  His delicate engraving and gently sloping forms combine into silver forms which look as if they may float.

View artwork by Michael Kirk

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