“Inspired by ancient petroglyphs and the mystical Star People, my work captures celestial journeys and ancestral wisdom. These symbols tell of travelers from the heavens: large stars meant they were good, smaller stars for challenges, and crosses for their home and ship.”

Mike Bird (b. 1946) is a renowned silversmith from the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo (San Juan) in northern New Mexico. Mike has achieved remarkable mastery in working with silver, gold and precious stones. His work is entirely handcrafted, exhibiting his commitment to traditional techniques and craftsmanship. Mike creates his stamps and dies from used automobile engines, carves intricate tufa casts, and pours his own silver.

Mike was raised in an artistic household. His grandmother, Luteria Atencio, a renowned potter whose works are part of the Smithsonian Institution was his first great inspiration. His mother, Lorencita Bird, was a respected tapestry artist. Other celebrated artists such as Julian Lovato, Mark Chee and Antonio Duran inspired Mike at a young age when he had the good fortune of seeing their work near his childhood home.

Upon graduating High School, Mike served two tours of duty in Vietnam in the Marine Corps from 1965-1969.

Our sweatshirt is 25 oz, 100% cotton fleece, manufactured and screen printed in Los Angeles, CA, using cotton grown, spun and knit in the USA.

We advise washing separately. Use cold water, a gentle cycle, and neutral detergent.