Gasdia, Terry Lee

TERRY LEE GASDIA was raised on both the Akimel O'Odahm and Hopi reservations of northern and southern Arizona, and learned the importance of traditional culture from both sides of his family. While growing up with his grandparents, his grandfather and teacher, Logan Dallas, taught him the art of Hopi Katsina doll carving and how to paint in oils and acrylics. Logan is his main inspiration, and most of Gasdias' art comes from memories shared while carving together. Terry was also taught traditional values by his people on the Akimel O'Odahm side of his family and now has begun to explore this direction in his art.

 

While living in South Dakota, Terry attended Sinte Gleska Art Institute on the Rosebud Reservation. He worked as a Cultural Consultant in the area schools, where he gave presentations on Art, Storytelling and Songs and Dances of the Southwest. In 2000, Terry was selected in the five state region as one of the Top Five Native Artists in the area. At this time Terry began exploring stone carving and attended a marble carving symposium in Colorado. He is now a full-time marble carver and teacher.

 

Terry is currently attending Fort Lewis College in Durango where he is double majoring in Art and American Indian Studies and has completed his Minor in Heritage Preservation.

 
Hilili Katsina, CKTG8-16
Hilili Katsina, CKTG8-16

Hilili Katsina is said to have originated in the Zuni Pueblo. Hilili is a Guard and he is admired for how fast he dances. The name comes from sounds he makes.

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Gasdia Katsina, CKTG8-3
Gasdia Katsina, CKTG8-3

"Kwasa-Itaka"- Terry Lee Gasdia is a versatile artist carving in wood and stone. This carving is made of aged cottonwood root and painted with pigments, then decorated with feathers. In the tradition of Hopi doll carving, each Katsina has a special role during ceremonies and seasons. This Katsina is also called the Seed Katsina.

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Gasdia Katsina, CKTG8-1
Gasdia Katsina, CKTG8-1

"Tawa"-Our Father Sun and "Hahai-i Wuhti"-Our Mother- Seasoned cottonwood root is painted with pigment and decorated with feathers. Father and Mother are sold as a pair, this is a unique offering. Terry has been learning and creating the KatsinaM culture his whole life. Call about these Katsina and you may reach Terry himself in the gallery to explain more about their significance in the Hopi ceremonies.

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Terry Gasdia's Saguarro Maiden, COATG6-25
Terry Gasdia's Saguarro Maiden, COATG6-25

Saguarro Maiden in marble by Terry Gasdia. This beautiful hand-carved piece is 56" tall.

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The People Who Are Gone
The People Who Are Gone

By the Artist: "The Hohokam of Southern Arizona were people of long ago who left many valuable pieces of information behind for the people of the desert. In this hot and dry land it was almost impossible to survive under the extreme heat and dry conditions of Arizona. The people relied heavily on the rain that their spirits provided in order to keep them alive another year. These spirits came in many forms and from many directions. With the power to bring rains and winds for the people, these Hoo-Hoogahm were able to use their powers to help the people live in the harsh lands. The Hoo-Hoogahm left their marks as petroglyphs on many of the mountain sides and are in many forms and directions throughout southern Arizona. These are special beings and are protectors of families, homes, plants, animals, waters and the lands. Without strength and will, many people cannot survive and need help, but with our Hoo-Hoogahm spirits, we can live another day knowing that they are there watching over us."

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Indian Arts & Crafts Association Since 1974