Damian Jim

Damian is a Diné (Navajo) artist and graphic designer from Bluff, Utah. In 1995, Twin Rocks Trading Post co-owner Barry Simpson hired Damian to create new basket designs based on Diné stories and imagery. His collaboration with the weavers, along with Barry and Steve Simpson was a catalyst that accelerated the explosion of new basket designs. Designing on a computer, Damian illustrated the weavers’ concepts and composed scores of original designs. Many weavers transformed his designs into stunning baskets that have won multiple awards. Since working at Twin Rocks, Damian has gone on to pursue a successful career as an artist working with acrylic/oil on canvas and ink on paper as well as digital art and photography in a printed format. His work has received numerous awards and been featured in many publications, markets, and shows. Damian co-founded and managed 1Spot Gallery, the only all indigenous art gallery in Phoenix. He also helped to create Ziindi: Indigenous Art Zine featuring contemporary indigenous artists from across the country.