Are Richard Begay and Robert Becenti the same? New to this group… 
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No.
Google search shows:
Robert Becenti (1949-2001) was born in Rehoboth, NM area of the Navajo Reservation. His mother, Bessie Becenti, was a well known weaver and often visited the gallery in Durango. As a young man, Robert sometimes drove her to town to see us.
Becenti was a realist and painting in the style of Jimmy Abeita. During the 1970’s through the early 1980’s, he was a regular award winner at the Gallup Inter-tribal Ceremonial. Becenti worked with the former Kiva Gallery in Gallup owned by the legendary Nell Guadagnoli. Guadagnoli promoted many Native artists and was for years the main source of Becenti paintings. The artist was also an accomplished silversmith and spent much of his time creating jewelry. He passed away at the age of 52.
Richard Begay was a Navajo Silversmith from Pinon Arizona. Richard passed away June 1, 2013 and we pay tribute to this remarkable individual. His work is displayed at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington DC and the Heard Museum in Phoenix AZ.
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Thank you for your response. I had read somewhere that sometimes the artist can use another name, but same initials, which is why I asked. Like them both! Was just gifted a beautiful piece created by Kirk Smith!! I wish I could afford these beautiful pieces!! So much appreciation for these artists!! 
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