Night Stories

Night Stories, a 1994 lithograph by R.C. Gorman, tells a powerful narrative of Navajo cosmic mythology and earthbound presence. Against a deep indigo starry night sky scattered with white stars, four sacred constellation animals float with geometric Southwest patterns etched into their bodies—patterns that reference traditional Navajo textiles and pottery design. An eagle, deer, bear, and other animals dance across the dark blue expanse. Below this cosmic realm stands a solitary Navajo woman in deep burgundy and magenta clothing holding a child, grounded on purple desert landscape with dramatic rock formations. The composition bridges heaven and earth, ancient storytelling and contemporary Navajo life. Rich chromatic transitions from midnight blue to turquoise to purple create an enchanting dreamscape. Essential for collectors of Gorman’s narrative works and Southwestern indigenous art.