“There’s just an abundance of talent around the walls of the trading company now” - Ellis Tanner, NM Magazine

 

Ellis Tanner wanted to encourage Navajo youth to take pride in their culture, language, history, and traditions. So Ellis had an idea to inspire Navajo youth with positive role models made up of Native Americans. 

In 1994, he commissioned Navajo artist, Chester Kahn to paint murals of prominent Navajos on the walls around his business. The seven-year mural project represents distinguished Navajo people of the twentieth century. Some of these people include: Beulah Allen, M.D; Dr. Carl N. Gorman; Fred Begay, Ph.D.; Dr. Annie Wauneka; Jeff King; and Luci Tapahonso. Each person wasn't randomly chosen either. Ellis Tanner and Chester Khan both prayed and mediated on each one before they put them up on the walls.

 

"This truly is one of the most inspiring projects I have been involved with"

 

These murals have become known as the Circle of Light Navajo Educational Project, or simply the Circle of Light, which has drawn school groups, tourists, and locals to Ellis Tanner Trading Company where they can learn more about each Navajo's accomplishments represented in the murals.

 

 

The Circle of Light murals led to an educational book produced in 2004. The book includes facts about Navajo History and culture and includes the biographies of 62 prominent Navajo people. It's an excellent resource and book for all ages. In fact, Ellis is always proud when he hears from Navajos who use the book for their research projects in elementary school to college classes.

Ellis is proud of The Circle of Light project and the people who surround his walls and people can see how incredible the Navajo are. Sometimes Ellis can be found late at night talking, or as he says, listening, to the Navajo figures in his store for guidance on how to best continue to serve the Navajo people.

We invite you to come by to learn more! Or visit our Navajo Bookstore to get a copy of the Circle of Light Navajo Educational Project book.

 

"My young in-laws, I hope that the people in the Circle of Light murals inspire you. I hope you will follow in their footsteps. I hope you will break through new barriers. I hope you will become role models for the generations that will follow you. May you walk in beauty and harmony on whatever path you choose"