Artist Bio
Joe Sanchez, “Little Bear”, is an experienced turquoise and silver artist whose work blends traditional craftsmanship with a distinctive personal style.  Known for his precision, creativity, and deep respect for natural materials, Joe creates jewelry that honors the heritage of Southwestern silverwork while expressing his own modern artistic voice.

Joe’s artistic foundation was shaped under the mentorship of the renowned master silversmith, Paul Lujan, “Big Bear”.  Training with Big Bear provided not only technical mastery – such as hand-forged silverwork, intricate stamp-work, bezel setting, and traditional finishing techniques – but also a philosophy rooted in patience, respect and storytelling through metal and stone.  This apprenticeship became the cornerstone of Joe’s craftsmanship and artistic identity.

Today, Little Bear is recognized for his bold use of natural turquoise, finely detailed silverwork and meaningful symbolism woven throughout his designs.  Each piece is handcrafted with care, reflecting his commitment to authenticity, quality and honoring the traditions passed down to him.  His work has appeared in galleries, artisan markets, and private collections, admired for its cultural depth and timeless beauty.

Continuing the legacy of Big Bear while forging his own creative path, Joe “Little Bear” Sanchez ensures that each piece of jewelry carries both heritage and heart.

Joe “Little Bear” Sanchez is a professional artist based in Bend, OR, whose creative passion lies in the realm of silver smithing. With extensive knowledge and expertise in the use of silver and turquoise, his designs are uniquely individualized and reflect his self-driven approach toward his craft. As an expert silversmith, Joe’s works transcend traditional jewelry designs and encompass a wide spectrum of styles and techniques. With a keen eye for design and a strong commitment to his art, Joe aspires to create pieces that speak to the heart and soul of his audience. His relatable persona and friendly demeanor make him a people’s friend, and his work can be found in galleries and commissioned by art lovers all over the world.

Client testimonial: “Joe brings a special touch to his work. He brings personal stories through his artwork and gives amazing detail to each piece of art. The time, energy, and quality are indicative of the passion he has for bringing each piece to life.”

From an extensive collection of turquoise Joe “Little Bear” welcomes requests to together create a personal and cherished piece of jewelry that you can enjoy, show off, and at the same time invest in.  Joe “Little Bear” 505-250-3977  and Littlebearagsr@gmail.com