Diné artist, Hyrum Joe paints the storefront of the Waci’-ci Trading Company on Wednesday, Sept. 2. Joe was commissioned to re-create the mural in his own style and flair, similiar to the original mural painted by Jim Heintze in the early 1990’s. The stucco was peeling and cracking and needed to be replaced.

For over 35 years, Waci’-ci Trading Company, family owned and operated, has been a trusted destination for authentic Indigenous art, beadwork, jewelry, and handmade gifts.

Joe, originally from Kirtland, N.M., now resides in Phoenix, Ariz., has been painting professionally for 22 years. Joe stated, “This is my third mural – one is in Phoenix, and the second is at the Cancer Center in Durango.” The first phase of the mural was completed Friday, Sept. 11. Joe is the son of world-renowned artist Orland Joe, who has art pieces in Ignacio, including at the Sky Ute Casino Resort and the Southern Ute Growth Fund building.

Original Waci-Ci artist, Jim Heintze had also painted the mural on the southern exterior wall of the Wells Fargo Bank. The building was the Phillips Mercantile, established in 1947 before current owners, Mavash and Mel Silva purchased the building.

Photo Credit: Robert L. Ortiz | The Southern Ute Drum