Yei-bi-chai

Yei-bi-chai, 1974, R.C. Gorman, lithograph celebrating three Yei-bi-chai (Holy People) figures central to Navajo spiritual tradition. Rendered in bold, geometric form, each standing figure holds an ornamental staff and wears stylized headpiece with vertical plumes. The composition employs a vibrant palette of bright yellow, turquoise blue, cream, and warm earth tones across the figures and the tan-to-rust high desert background. The geometric patterning on the garments and the careful color blocking reflect both traditional Navajo artistic vocabulary and Gorman’s modernist sensibility. The upright, ceremonial poses convey spiritual significance and power. This lithograph demonstrates Gorman’s ability to honor indigenous spiritual imagery while creating a compelling contemporary print. A landmark work for collectors of Navajo spirituality art, ceremonial imagery, Southwest fine art, and color lithographs.