(Flagstaff, Ariz.)The oldest Hopi art show in the world is also the place to find some of the newest Hopi art today.
More than 50 traditional and contemporary Hopi painters, potters, doll carvers, weavers, jewelers, storytellers, musicians, and dancers will be represented at the 71st Annual Hopi Marketplace from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, July 3–4 at the Museum of Northern Arizona.
From ancient Katsina doll carving techniques to modern Native American sounds, the marketplace is designed to increase awareness and sensitivity to both past and present Hopi culture, says MNA’s Heritage Program Manager Bob Lomadafkie.
DAWA, a Phoenix-based rock band named after the Hopi word for sun, will light up the courtyard with its blend of rock and reggae sounds as artists share their inspirations and techniques.
“Many generations will be represented here, presenting their creations to the visitors for viewing and purchasing,” says Lomadafkie. “Artistic talents and guarded techniques have been passed within families or clans, and each generation adds its own expressions and skills.”
Featured artist and Hopi jeweler Sonwai Verma Nequatewa, from the Butterfly clan in Hotevilla on the Third Mesa of the Hopi Reservation in northeastern Arizona, creates exotic inlaid stone collectible jewelry that she first learned to make by apprenticing with her internationally-recognized uncle Charles Loloma.
Clark Tenakongva and his daughter Simana, from the Rabbit and Tobacco clans on Third Mesa, will perform traditional Hopi music. Clark, an award-winning Katsina doll carver, hosts a Hopi KUYI radio show featuring the tribe’s songs, oral history, and storytelling. Other performances include traditional eagle and rainbow dancing by the Lomayaoma Dance Group.
This year’s cultural presenter is author Gregory Schaff, who will discuss his recent book, Hopi-Tewa Pottery. “I researched my book in the Museum library and archives,” says Schaff. “For more than 75 years, MNA has been a leader in the collection of Hopi art, and I’m glad to be part of the marketplace.”
Twice a day, Medicine Woman Theodora Homewytewa will host hour-long ethnobotany hikes along the Rio de Flag. “I show people how to spot a dozen or more different plants that are used for medicinal purposes,” she says. “For example, hops are used to treat epilepsy and sleeplessness.”
Demonstrations include pottery making by Karen Charley, wicker basket making by Leora Kayquoptewa and Hopi food making by Alice Dashee.
A Creative Corner will entertain and educate kids, while adults learn how they can help the tribe through the Hopi Foundation, a nonprofit organization devoted to providing developmental opportunities for Hopi people.
The Museum of Northern Arizona is located on Highway 180 three miles of downtown Flagstaff. An originator of American Indian marketplaces, MNA’s Heritage Program presents the best of the diverse cultures of the Colorado Plateau in a summer-long celebration of marketplaces. Since 1930, audiences of all ages—families, children, connoisseurs, and collectors—have enjoyed fine Native American and Hispanic arts and performances. For more information, call 928/774-5213 or visit www.musnaz.org.