Title: Hahai-i Wuhti
Culture: Hopi
Maker: Stetson Honyumptewa
Date:
Materials: Wood, feather, acrylic paint
Signed? Yes
This female kachina is present at many ceremonies including Salako,
Powamuya, Pachavu, Palölökongti, and Soyoko. She embodies the personality
of a Hopi grandmother, speaking in a shrill voice. Her vocal nature is not a
common attribute of kachinas. During the Pachavu on Third Mesa, she is known
to have offered children somiviki (a Hopi food), pouring water on their heads
when they reach for it. This is a ceremonial action. She is also the wet nurse of
the Water Serpents during the Puppet Dances. Her tihu (doll) is given to Hopi
infants and captive eagles (Wright, Kachinas: a Hopi artist’s documentary, 60).
Stetson Honyumptewa has been carving since the 70s, winning an award in
1992 for Best Recognized Kachina. His favorite figures are Chakwaina, Hilili, and
Honkatsina, among others. His ex carvings have been shown in a number of
galleries including McGee’s Indian Art (Keams, AZ), Packard’s on the Plaza
(Santa Fe), and Indian River Gallery (Las Vegas, NV). According to Packard’s,
Stetson is “known for highly detailed carvings. His figures strike dramatic poses
and seem alive with energy” (Schaff, 134).