Keith Torres
Antelope
12 3/4"
with 1 3/4" base
Like most of the other game
animals, this Antelope, or Chof, kachina dances for the
increase of his kind. "When he appears, whether in the kiva
or as a group in the plaza, it is in the hope that more of his
kind will be around for harvesting by the Hopis.
The Hopis may offer him cornmeal
and prayer feathers and explicity state the wish that he will
remain and allow them to take some members of the Antelope family.
The stick that he holds in his hands represent the front legs
of the animal when he walks or dances."
- Barton Wright, Kachinas: a Hopi
Artist's Documentary (165)
This particular piece was
created by the talented and well-known artist, Keith Torres.
His attention to detail, and the life-like realism of his work
is what sets his pieces apart.
His bases are unique and distinct,
and the figures are always engaged in some meaningful action.
Another notable aspect of his work is the natural characteristics
of the wood which are allowed to show through the paint work.
The details like the feathers
and jewelry pieces have each been meticulously carved by hand.
The antler headdress is a nice, clean feature of this superb
carving. The white, knitted leggings are another special feature
of this great carving.
Carved entirely from one piece,
with the exception of the accents, this figure is a great example
of Keith's fine work.
The anatomy and proportion
of this piece is impressive. His hands have been carefuly detailed,
and the arms, legs and shoulders are all done appropriately.
Keith has done an excellent job painting this figure.
The back of his headdress
is made up of eagle feathers - in a wide array. The eagle is
revered as a messenger who carries prayers to the creator.
This would be a delicate and
valuable addition to any collection.
Keith A. Torres is from First
Mesa. He is of the Coyote and Fire Clans. He learned to carve
from his uncle, Edward Poleahla, and has since won awards for
his carving such as First Place in 1996 at the Gallup Ceremonial.
He is listed in Erik Bromberg's
The Hopi Approach to the Art of KACHINA DOLL CARVING.
Keith is an exceptional carver who has a wonderful eye for detail
along with the skill and ability to create truly important works
of art through his carving.
