Hopi-Tewa Reservation
Burel Hughes Naha, “Long Hair Kachina”,
member of the Spider Clan was born into the Hopi-Tewa Reservation in
1944.
He was inspired to learn the art of traditional pottery making at the
age of 7 from his famous Mother, the late Helen Naha.
Burel specializes in the handmade traditional Hopi pottery, but he has
created his own unique style. He enjoys painting spiders with intricate
web designs all around his pottery.
The earlier designs that he used were Helen’s until his daughter,
Cynthia Naha brought home a computerized photo of a spider which she
drew. Cynthia told him that they were drawing insects and spiders in
class. He was hypnotized by the design and late one night he couldn’t
get the spider out of his thoughts. He decided to experiment with the
spider pattern on his pottery and this is where his idea was originated
from. People refer to him as Spider-man.
Burel received his BA at Brigham Young University. He was a teacher
for many years and now has dedicated his life to his wonderful uniquely
painted pottery. Burel credits his success to his mother for teaching
him the traditional ways of their ancestors. Now he can also teach his
children so that they may continue the Hopi traditions and won't get
lost and forgotten.
Burel signs his pottery as: Long Hair Kachina (symbol), followed by
a feather design.
Burel comes from a long line of famous potters which includes: the famous
Sylvia Naha, Rainell Naha (sisters), the famous Paqua Naha (grandmother),
and the famous Joy “Frogwoman”.Navasie (aunt).
