
Nanibaa Beck is a 2nd generation Dine’ (Navajo) jeweler of BECK STUDIO.
At 13, she became an assistant to her father, Victor Beck, Sr., and learned fundamental silversmith skills, from him, alongside her mother Eleanor Beck. Being intricately connected to the creation process motivated Nanibaa to become more knowledgeable about the multifaceted areas surrounding Native American art.
During her academic years, she studied anthropology, American Indian Studies and museum studies. Her background includes work and fellowships with renown museums and organizations, including the Heard Museum, the National Museum of the American Indian, the Peabody Essex Museum, and the Arizona Humanities Council. Through it all, she maintained her connection to the vibrant Native creative community.
In November 2013, Nanibaa founded NotAbove Jewelry. Her a-ha moment to pursue jewelry occurred after a small thank you card project sparked the idea for the original language necklaces. The hand-sawn minimal jewelry collection’s focus on Native indigenous languages fulfilled a unique niche of native art. They were the beginning of the thoughtful and intentional handmade creations that connect to her Dine’ culture.
Today, NotAbove/Nanibaa Beck Designs is a reflection of vibrant Native creative expressions and the growth of an ‘Asdzaa Dine’ (Dine’ woman) as a metalsmith.
* All creations are handmade on Tohono O’odham and Pascua Yaqui lands / Tucson, Arizona.