Lynne Hardy: Ajoobaasani
By, Savignon Swimmer
Photo courtesy Lynne Hardy
Indigenous art invokes a vast array of feelings for those who view it, its power to heal and rejuvenate or give a sense of belonging is ever-present across so many artists’ work. When strolling through Ajoobaasani’s shop and taking in the beautiful work done by Lynne Hardy, the bright and earthy tones create a relaxing presence that marvels the soul. One can find Lynne’s work on all sorts of products, including prints, stickers, journals, calendars, and even coloring books. Their art celebrates Navajo culture, depicting scenic moments that one can’t help but take in and appreciate.
To learn more about Lynne and their work for Ajoobaasani, we sat down to talk with the artist to hear the story in their own words.
Can you give us an introduction about yourself?
Ya’at’eeh, my name is Lynne Hardy. My clans are Dzil na ooldzilnii nishli (sacred turning mountain people), Oozei Ashiihii bashishchiin (Hopi salt), Chishi Kiiyaa’aani dashicheii (Apache towering house), Tsinaajini dashinali (Black streak wood people). I grew up both in Flagstaff and the reservation, in the Cameron, Grey Mountain area. I am a Graphic Designer and illustrator currently living in Provo, UT. I love my culture and family, they are the main reasons that I create art. When I’m not working, I love being in nature, spending time with friends and working out.
For those who don’t know, what is Ajoobaasani? Can you tell us about the team behind it?
There is always significance in a name. The meaning behind our company name originated from the Cameron, Arizona region that we hail from. Our great-grandfather was a revered Medicine Man in our area of the Navajo Reservation. His name was Olta’i Nez but he also went by Frank Bilagody Johnson. Our great-grandfather explained that Dzilth Ajoobaa’i is another name for our Gray Mountain. It is a benevolent mountain, giving us what it has to offer. It provided food, water, grazing areas, ceremonial necessities, and it sheltered our ancestors from the US Calvary. Our mountain is joobaa’. We are from Dzilth Ajoobaa’i. Hence, Ajoobaa’sani. Me and my sisters created Ajoobaasani because we wanted to share our culture in a creative, modern and bright way! Our goal is for everyone to enjoy the art and feel good about supporting Indigenous art.
What sort of art do you like to create? What are your favorite mediums to work in?
I love illustration and branding. I minored in entrepreneurship in college and it went along with my love for branding. I like to imagine businesses that I would like to open and how I would create branding for it. As for my illustrations, it took me a while to find what I liked to create and I found that I am a storyteller. I tell stories through my illustrations. I want people to know and see life as an indigenous person as I see it: colorful, beautiful and complex. In our culture, there is a great emphasis on walking in beauty. I like to create art that mirrors that message. So, I use lots of colors and draw people in different situations. My favorite mediums to use are just a basic pencil and paper and then transfer my work to my Ipad to fill with color. I’ve been wanting to get back to painting with acrylic and gouache.
How does your heritage and culture factor into your art?
When I create, I like to think of special experiences or stories of my ancestors that I feel that others would enjoy or learn from. Of course, I draw the usual hogan, moccasins, and mesa landscape, but I love to express more through drawings of Diné people. Not many people know of the adventures and lives of Diné people, in the past and in the present. I like to capture that through my illustrations.
How did Ajoobaasani first emerge as a business?
I actually didn’t want to at first, but my sisters encouraged me to. It started with creating Native Valentine’s cards and then coloring books. Once I posted them, people actually wanted them! I couldn’t believe it. Once I started to create, I wanted to create more products for others to enjoy.
What are some of your favorite products that you’ve created?
I created a design of my late grandmother riding a horse (she was great at riding horses) and had the design on a t-shirt. That was my favorite because I wanted everyone who wore the shirt to feel her strong spirit.
What does your creative process look like?
My creative process starts off with me thinking of something that makes me happy or looking at pictures of my family. For example, I went back to the reservation and had a special moment with my family while working on chores outside. I decided to draw something to capture the moment. I then choose colors I feel match the vibe. I sketch the illustration and fill it with color!
Where do you hope to see Ajoobaasani be in five years?
I hope to have a lot more products in an actual store! I would love to create a space that anyone would feel excited to come into. You wouldn’t even need to buy anything, just come enjoy the art and feel enlightened! Me and my sisters were talking about opening a store and having a food cafe open alongside it that serves great indigenous food.
Where can our readers learn more about and follow your work?
You can follow me on IG @ajoobaasani! If you would like to shop from my online shop, visit www.ajoobaasani.com and if you would like to work with me for custom illustrations or branding, email me at ajoobaasani@gmail.com.