Kachina Dolls: The Art of Hopi Carvers [Paperback]

Helga Teiwes (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 1, 1992

Much has been written about the popular kachina dolls carved by the Hopi Indians of northern Arizona, but little has been revealed about the artistry behind them. Now Helga Teiwes describes the development of this art form from early traditional styles to the action-style kachina dolls made popular in galleries throughout the world, and on to the kachina sculptures that have evolved in the last half of the 1980s. Teiwes explains the role of the Katsina spirit in Hopi religion and that of the kachina doll—the carved representation of a Katsina—in the ritual and economic life of the Hopis. In tracing the history of the kachina doll in Hopi culture, she shows how these wooden figures have changed since carvers came to be influenced by their marketability among Anglos and how their carving has been characterized by increasingly refined techniques. Unique to this book are Teiwes's description of the most recent trends in kachina doll carving and her profiles of twenty-seven modern carvers, including such nationally known artists as Alvin James Makya and Cecil Calnimptewa. Enhancing the text are more than one hundred photographs, including twenty-five breathtaking color plates that bring to life the latest examples of this popular art form.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Hopi Indian Kachina dolls have evolved from a primitive religious symbol into a modern art form. Tracking this transition, Teiwes covers the history and cultural background of the Hopi Indians and their Kachina dolls, then turns to modern techniques and biographies of some contemporary Hopi artists. The author's admitted weakness in history shows in an uneven, choppy chapter, with frequent references to authorities. Nothing new is offered. The book is heavily illustrated, but the captions are ponderous, even longer than the text on the page. Still, the central color plates are particularly beautiful, and the book ends with quick and concise biographies of 27 Hopi artists. This specialized source is recommended for collections on American Indian or Southwest art.
- Karen Ellis, Victoria P.L., Tex.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Review

"This is not just another book about those cute but expensive dolls sold throughout the Southwest. Teiwes provides good background then proceeds into detail about recent developments in carving technique." —Books of the Southwest "Teiwes is foremost a photographer, and her images of the artists at work and of the kachina sculptures are extraordinary. . . . Provides an excellent understanding of the secular contexts of contemporary Hopi kachina wood sculpture." —American Indian Culture and Research Journal "Provides a clear example, easily grasped by most readers, of how Native Americans, even members of tribes rooted in centuries of tradition, adapt to modern technologies and opportunities." —Choice "This book will be of great value in furthering our understanding of Hopi culture, for stimulating a rethinking of ethnic art, and for opening new horizons in the anthropology of tourism." —Asian Folklore Studies "This book merits the attention of collectors and others enchanted by these works of art. . . . A pleasure to read." —Utah Historical Quarterly "Absorbing reading for art lover and novice alike." —Chronicle-Journal/Times-News (Canada)

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 161 pages
• Publisher: University of Arizona Press (September 1, 1992)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0816512647
• ISBN-13: 978-0816512645
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.2 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #854,218 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

24 of 24 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars In a word: OUTSTANDING!, July 2, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Kachina Dolls: The Art of Hopi Carvers (Hardcover)

Cecil Calnimptewa, Ronald Honyouti, Loren Phillips, Dennis Tewa and Wilmer Kaye ... they're all in this book, plus 22 other top Hopi carvers. Need I say more! Author/photographer Teiwes begins by tracing the life, history and religion of the Hopi and brings the reader to the doorstep of 1991 (the publication date). 24 color photos serve as the central focus of the book, but the final 63 pages which profile the 27 carvers is what really "makes" it. My copy is in paperback. I assume the hardback foremat is the same. Pick up a copy; you'll thoroughly enjoy it!!!