Hopi Nation

Gene C. Dawahoya, “Lapan-Hyeoma”, (Icicle), member of the Bear Strap Clan (rope made out of bear hide), was born into the Hopi Nation in 1963.

Gene is a self taught Hopi kachina carver. He was inspired artistically and was economically motivated to learn the art of wood carving. He began experimenting with wood carving at the age of 13.

Gene specializes in Hopi kachinas hand carved out of cotton wood root. Gene enjoys carving warrior kachinas because it reminds him of his great ancestors, when life was simple. Kachinas are of great importance to Gene and all other Hopi People.

There is approximately over 300 hundred kachinas in existence and each has its own place within the Hopi Nation. Hopi People believe that Kachinas are supernatural beings. Kachinas are also used in certain religious ceremonies. The impelling force of the Hopi religion is the necessity for water in all forms such as rain, snow, and drinking water from the springs. Kachinas also provide hope for the Hopi Villages.

Gene signs his kachina dolls as: Gene Dawahoya, Hopi, followed by a description of the doll.

Gene is related to the following artists: Beauford Dawahoya, Nuvadi Dawahoya (brothers), and Clyde Harris (son).

Publications:
-Arizona Highway Magazine

Awards:
-New Mexico State Fair 1st Place 2000
-1998 New Mexico State Fair 1st Place
-1998 New Mexico State Fair 2nd Place