Aaron J. Fredericks
Turtle Taka
& Mana
Santa Fe
Indian Market 2004
Winner - Blue
Ribbon
16-17"
total height
Special Note:
We are showcasing this amazing
kachina to illustrate the beautiful work of Aaron J. Fredericks,
whose work we frequently carry. This particular piece won a blue
ribbon at the Santa Fe Indian Market this year, and sold for
$14,000.00!
We hope you'll enjoy taking
a look at another example of fine work by one of the premier
Hopi kachina carvers.
Although the Turtle dance
is believed to have been given first at Shipaulovi as a line
dance and to have come from Acoma sometime before the turn of
the century, these figures are unlike their Acoma counterparts.
They appear more like the
Long-haired kachinas, but again having their own functions. This
Kahaila set is illustrated beautifully with careful attention
to detail in feathers, hands, and faces. The reverent motions
indicate their attitude and activity. Aaron's ability to give
meaningful posture to his creations allow the onlooker to catch
a glimpse of an age old tradition - alive.
Aaron J. Fredericks is an
experienced carver whose work has rapidly reached the top of
its category. He consistently does well at juried competitions
including Santa Fe's Indian Market, the Heard Museum's Indian
Art Show, and the Museum of Northern Arizona's Hopi Show, where
he has taken Best of Division on many occasions. He also attended
the prestigious Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe.
His work can be found in the most discriminating collections.
He is a traditional carver
from the village of Shungopavi at Second Mesa. He enjoys working
on his dolls, and gets a lot of inspiration from his cultural
heritage. His wife also encourages his work and shares in the
creative process by suggesting colorful themes seen usually around
the bases of his work.
Aaron's kachinas are always
masterfully detailed with superb painting and shading. They are
carved primarily from one piece, except for the most minor details.
There are few carvers who pay as meticulous attention to detail
as Aaron.
One of the great strengths
of Aaron's carvings is that he is directly involved in his culture
and is able to witness firsthand the characteristics of the actual
kachina figures that he creates.
Often his greatest inspiration
will come from observing the various ceremonies - where he might
see a figure that he has not yet carved before.
One of the most appealing
aspects of Aaron's work is the detail he puts into the overall
carving. Not only is the kaching figure itself well carved, with
meticulous attention to the subtle textures and delicate painting,
but there is always additional symbolism and other meaningful
Hopi motifs depicted throughout.
Take a closer look at the
photos and let this masterful carving speak for itself!
