Kachina Carver
Chester Poleyestewa
By Rebekah Powers | March 2022
The exceptional carving of Chester Poleyestewa stands as a testament to Hopi tradition and exemplifies the historic aesthetic better than anyone else carving Katsinas today. His materials include the traditional cottonwood root, painted completely with natural plant and mineral dyes that Poleyestewa makes himself, with finishing touches of angora, deerskin and elegant feather work for which the artist is known.
He learned as a young boy from his father, and continued the style of carving that harkens back to the 1800’s when the figures were simpler forms, arms tucked close to the body, and the expressive masks are perfect in every detail. Poleyestewa’s work is instantly recognized by his soft pastel palette with paints made of copper, choke cherry berries, alkaline jet and coal ash adding a temper to resist fading over time.
Looking at his pieces, you sense his passion for this Hopi tradition in which fathers and uncles carved dolls for their daughters and nieces as teaching tools, acquainting them with the figures and what teaching each one represents.
A matrilineal culture, it is interesting that women were not allowed to participate in the dances and ceremonies. Female katsinas were represented by male dancers, so it was through dolls that little Hopi girls learned about their culture.
Chester Poleyestewa is also known for the thoughtful ornamentation of his figures and their charming faces. Appealing to children and serious collectors worldwide, the Poleyestewa name stands tall in Hopi lineage and represents the best quality of collectible katsinas available today.
He speaks to us from a place in time when the art form was a central aspect of Hopi culture that we can all learn from today. Come and answer the call of Hopi history as interpreted by contemporary Kachina carver, Poleyestewa.
If you have had a memorable experience with us in the past,
please leave a review.
Come to the gallery to see where History Meets Art in Taos..
#1 Saint Francis Church Plaza
Ranchos de Taos, NM 87557
575.758.0504
We buy individual pieces or whole collections.
Contact us for the evaluation and resale of your collectible art.
We’re interested in locating relevant collections and original New Mexico artwork for purchase. We buy historic and contemporary relevant paintings, pottery, jewelry, textiles, weavings and more.
Contact us directly to discuss and evaluate your collection. If you’re an artist, contact us about the possibility of selling your art on consignment or direct wholesale purchase.
Copyright © 2023 Chimayo Trading Del Norte | Ranchos Del Taos, 87557 | All rights reserved.