Hopi Pueblo Kachina Turtle Maiden Doll By Nuvadi Dawahoya

Late 20th/Early 21st Century

8.25" L x 1.375" L x 2.625" W

Hand Carved from Cottonwood Root and Painted in Red, Teel, White, Yellow, Brown and Black Colors with Very Fine Etched Details and is a Wall Hanging Flat Doll 

In Mint Condition

Nuvadi Dawahoya was born in 1976 on the Hopi Reservation in Arizona, Dawahoya (Hopi name meaning "Snow") began carving kachina dolls in 1995 at age 19. He comes from a family of artisans and learned the craft through traditional methods passed down in Hopi villages. His dolls are hand-carved from cottonwood root (a sacred wood symbolizing resilience in the arid Southwest, as its roots seek water deeply). He uses sharp knives for shaping, sands the surface smooth, adds texture with a wood burner, and seals the grain with polyurethane before painting with natural pigments. Dawahoya's finish is distinctive—smooth yet textured, emphasizing the wood's natural beauty. Dawahoya views carving as a way to honor Hopi culture and share it globally, stating, "I am proud and honored to be artistically gifted with this special talent... enthusiastic about sharing my kachina dolls with all who respect and appreciate my artistic abilities and my cultural background."