Katsintithu—Katsina Dolls
Opened January 2026
This doll represents the grandmother of the katsinam. Young Hopi girls receive a doll like this to care for and learn about motherhood.
Qöqlö katsinam bring gifts to Hopi families during the Powamuya ceremony in February. This Yellow Qöqlö doll is a farmer bringing ears of corn.
Anwusnasomtaqa katsintihu, Raven Mother doll, by Jimmy Kewanwytewa (Hopi)
Hahay'iwùuti sculpture, Katsina grandmother, by Orin Poley Jr. (Hopi)
More sculpture than doll, this katsina mother figure was made for sale and later gifted to MNA by the carver.
Explore the tradition and artistry of Hopi katsina dolls in this new Museum of Northern Arizona installation. Selected with consultation from Hopi cultural leaders, the dolls displayed are from the museum’s extensive collection—rotating in the exhibit every six months. The rotations will examine a variety themes, providing insight into the origin, cultural importance, and artistic heritage of katsina dolls. The first installation examines carving styles and how dolls diversified from educational toys for girls to an art form.