Born in 1961, Raymond Chee is of Navajo and Hopi heritage, drawing deeply from both traditions in his work. Trained as a welder, he turned to carving professionally after an accident redirected his path—an unexpected shift that revealed his remarkable artistic voice.

A self-taught sculptor, Chee is celebrated for his finely balanced proportions, expressive movement, and intricate detail. Working primarily in wood, he brings to life a wide range of Native American figures and stories, blending cultural knowledge with a strong sense of form and narrative.

Chee’s work has earned widespread recognition and is held in numerous collections, including the Schingoethe Center for Native American Cultures at Aurora University in Illinois. In 2021, he was awarded Best of Class in Sculpture at the prestigious Santa Fe Indian Market, further cementing his reputation as a leading contemporary Native American artist.