Prinston Collateta
Hilili
8 1/4"
H with 1/2" base
The Hilili "is apparently
a kachina that has made its way from Acoma or Laguna by a process
of osmosis. In these pueblos he is known as Heleleka. By the
time he reached the Hopis prior to the turn of the century, his
name had changed to Hilili, 'from the call that he makes.'
"His first appearance
was among the Hopis of First Mesa and the other two mesas made
known their disapproval by calling this a witch or Powak Kachina.
However, his popularity as a guard kachina and admiration for
his rapid dance has increased.
"Now he is found on all
the mesas in a great variety of forms. He appears very frequently
in the Powamu and in the Night Dances."
- Barton Wright, Kachinas: a Hopi
Artist's Documentary (43)
We consider Prinston to be
one of the up-and-coming carvers. If his style looks familar
to that of Nuvadi, it is. He is the nephew of Marvene
Kewenvoyouma who is married to Nuvadi, and thus they spend
some time together carving. They will often be seen sharing a
booth at various markets and shows.
Prinston is developing quickly
and we look forward to seeing more great work by this talented
young artist!
