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My name is Louie
Gonnie. I am a Zuni descendant, Tábąąhí (Edge Water Clan),
born for the Tl'aashchí'í (Red Streak Under Eye) clan. My
maternal clan in the Todíich'íi'nii (Bitter Water People)
and my paternal clan is the Nát'oh Dine'é Táchii'nii
(Tobacco People/Red Streak Running in the Water Clan).
I was born in
the Diné (Navajo) Nation at a place called Antelope Springs.
Singing by the age of five under the guidance of my father
and uncles, I was taught to respect my elders and healing
ways of my people. A major influence in my life is my
grandfather, Haastíín Gonnie, a noted medicine man, for his
never ending devotion to humanity. It is his teaching that
guide me on this journey through life. The prayer is my
canvas and the songs represent the colors that become my
art.
In addition to
expressing myself through music, I also paint, draw, and
write. I enjoy capturing moments in nature, wildlife, and
culture using a variety of mediums: oil, acrylic, pastel,
pencil, and ink. There are many expressions in life in an
ever flowing stream of fine artists.
I share my song
with you to take to heart. These are songs that tell a
story, take you on a journey. Soothing and calm melodies
invite to passages through the Diné Nation. Experience our
four sacred mountains; to the east, to the south, to the
west, and to the north.
~Louie Gonnie |