Keith Torres
White Ogre
/ Wiharu
16 1/2"
total height
(12"
H head to toe, with 1 3/4" base)
"The fearsome Nataska
always come as a pair. They accompany the Soyoko on their collection
trip and usually stand directly behind the member of the crew
who is bargaining with the relatives of the children.
"They make horrible noises,
dragging their saws [and knives, or whatever it may be] along
the side of the house or on the ground. All the while, they keep
up a steady stamping that makes the turtle-shell rattles on their
legs sound ominously.
"They are supposed to
be able to eat a child whole; from the very earliest age, the
child has heard stories of these monsters - how they would descend
on children playing near the village and haul them away to cook
and eat. So it is no wonder that the children are petrified at
their actual appearance!
"Usually only dark colored
clothes are put on this kachina pair, who should have horns.
The feather fan is made of turkey feathers which are placed close
together to form a large mass behind the head that makes the
figures appear much taller and broader."
- Barton Wright, Kachinas: a Hopi
Artists Documentary (78)
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 feathers have each been
meticulously ribbed by hand. The headdress is a spactacular feature
of this superb carving.
Carved entirely from one piece,
with the exception of the smallest accents, this figure gracefully
stands a full 16" tall.
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.
Notice the delicate braids running alonside his fearsome face.
The long and menacing snout is filled with razor sharp teeth
- striking terror in the hearts of onlookers - young and old
alike.
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.
