Left Handed Katsina, 1989
by Roland Bahnimptewa (1965-1998), Hopi
cotton wood, pigment
10" high x 4" wide x 4" deep
The Left-Handed Katsina, known as Siyangephoya, is a traditional Hopi spirit being and a popular subject for carved cottonwood dolls. Believed to originate from Hualapai traditions, he is famous for doing things in reverse, such as carrying his bow and drawing arrows with his opposite hand.
Roland Bahnimptewa is the son of Clifford Bahnimptewa, and brother of Larson, Steven and Danny Bahnimptewa. Roland won an award in 1993 placing second at Inter-tribal Indian Ceremonial, Gallup, NM. Roland's work is part of the collection at Heard Museum, Phoenix AZ.
Roland Bahnimptewa was influenced by Alvin James in using stains to reveal the natural wood grain. the oil-based stain enriches the color. He added minimal Painted highlights.
