Diné College Celebrated Nanibah Chacón as Mellon Fellow; Community Participated in Artist Talk

February 5th, 2025

TSAILE,AZ – Diné College announced Navajo/Diné artist Nanibah Chacón as the newest Mellon Fellow through the Nits’ą́ą́dóó Ídahwiil’aah (We Are Learning From You) Mellon Initiative. Chacón presented an Artist Talk on Feb. 4, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at NHC 1st Floor on the Tsaile Campus.

Chacón, renowned for her innovative public art pieces and community-driven creativity, highlighted her latest project—a sculpture on the Navajo Nation that incorporated an FM radio transmitter to broadcast recorded expressions from the community. “I’ve always been captivated by how art can communicate beyond the physical,” Chacón said during the event. “This project is a way to honor our cultural roots and bring modern technologies into balance.”

The sculpture, which featured inaudible wavelength transmissions, aimed to spark dialogue about identity, landscape, and technology. “Our philosophy has always integrated beauty and purpose with the tools we have,” Chacón explained. “This is about creating connections—from the past, present, and into the future.”

The initiative, sponsored by the Mellon Foundation, Diné College’s School of Arts and Humanities, and the President’s Office, allowed Chacón to explore the intersections of traditional teachings and contemporary mediums further.

“The event was more than just an artist talk,” a college spokesperson stated. “It was an invitation for the community to engage, reflect on where tradition meets innovation, and participate in shaping the artistic landscape.”

Community members attended the event and connected with Chacón’s vision for the project. “I hope this work inspires others to imagine new ways to communicate our stories and preserve what’s sacred,” Chacón said.

For more information, attendees were encouraged to contact Diné College’s School of Arts and Humanities team.