Gene Dawahoya

Artist Profile

Gene C. Dawahoya, “Lapan-Hyeoma”, (Icicle), member of the Bear Strap Clan (rope made of bear hide), was born into the Hopia nation in 1963. Gene is a self taught Hopi kachina carver. He was inspired artistically to experiment with wood carving at the age of 13.

Gene specializes in Hopi kachinas hand carved out of cottonwood root. Gene enjoys carving warrior kachinas because it reminds him of his great ancestors, at a time when life was simple. Kachinas are of great importance to Gene, along with all other Hopi people. There are over 300 kachinas in existence and each has its own place within the Hopi nation. The Hopi believe Kachinas are supernatural beings and are often used in 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: Gene Dawahoya, Hopi, followed by a description of the doll. Gene is related to: Beauford Dawahoya, Nuvadi Dawahoya (brothers), and Clyde Harris (son).