Neil David

Neil David (typically Neil Randall David, Sr., b. 1944), a Hopi-Tewa artist from Polacca/First Mesa (Hano/Tewa Village), Arizona, is a well-known carver and painter of katsina (kachina) dolls and related works. He is recognized for detailed, often humorous or expressive carvings (especially Koshare/Hano clowns), traditional figures, and paintings. He co-founded Artist Hopid, has work in collections and museums, illustrated books such as Kachinas: Spirit Beings of the Hopi (featuring his paintings of rarer katsinas), and is sometimes called “the Hopis’ Norman Rockwell” for his depictions of ceremonial life. His son Neil David, Jr., and other relatives (including brother Larry David) are also carvers. Pieces are usually carved from cottonwood root, painted, and may include added materials such as feathers, yarn, or fabric; many are signed and dated on the base.