In Navajo history, masks represent the peoples’ interest in nature and spiritualism. With masks, tribe members are able to reveal their feelings and emotions toward particular things. When making them, Navajo people had the chance to demonstrate their creativity utilizing materials they could easily acquire, like wood, leather, feathers, and cloth. Using Navajo Masks Navajo artifacts like masks were worn during battle, shaman… Continue Reading
Perhaps the two most visible representations of Hopi culture in our society are the colorful hand-carved Katsina dolls and the costumed dancers that appear as the spirits that the dolls represent at certain times of the year. For the Hopi, all things follow a specific, traditional order. In August or September, after gathering the annual harvest and the… Continue Reading
Of all Native American weaponry, lancets, spears, tomahawks, and bows and arrows, knives were the most useful and versatile. Considering that the natives hunted their own food and made their own homes, boats, clothes, cradles, bed frames, traps, musical instruments and more, it’s easy to see how knives would come in handy. Even women were… Continue Reading
Although it feels like Katsina season has just began, the start of July marks the end of this celebratory time of the year. The Hopi season that coordinates with the month of July is called Talangva, and it is during this time that the Hopi people give thanks to the Katsinam who have brought them… Continue Reading
Almost everyone remembers the first time he or she heard the hauntingly beautiful tones of the Native American flute. A vital part of important ceremonies and events, flute music encouraged Native Americans to meditate and contemplate life just as their 21st-century counterparts do. Of special importance to young men who wanted to express their tender thoughts as they… Continue Reading