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Southwest Indian Art Award of Excellence
~ $1,000 ~ Courtesy of Jim Click Automotive Team ~
"Spiritually United"
by Alexander R. Youvella, Hopi
Description: Carving with four figures from the Eagle Dance Ceremony. Carved in from a single piece of wood with natural pigments, acrylic paints and oils.
About this Award: Awarded for work that exhibits the highest visual appeal and craftsmanship.
Jurors' Comments:
Rex Arrowsmith: Hopi carving, tall sculpture, very well balanced. To me it's a very fine piece incorporating the eagle, mudhead, dancers—very well-balanced, all of the elements tie in with the rest of sculpture. The sashes and smaller parts of the entire figure all flow well into each other. For example, the sashes and other elements all flow in a similar direction. Overall sculpture and flow is great.
David Johns: (Preferred "At Peace" alabaster sculpture of mother and two children.) Because it's an original stone sculpture. Mainly I like the three figures; the sculpture shows a young mother trying to put children to sleep. The expression of the mother and children is moving; I had a feeling like they could touch me. The mother is tired, and even though the sculpture is stone, there is a strong emotional feeling in it. It has a sense of caring, loving. I didn't choose the Hopi sculpture because it seems that the artist could do more detail work to make it an excellent piece.
Larry King: (Originally chose "Creator's Blessing" a maiden, green and black sculpture.) I defended it, but unfortunately it was the first edition of 35, not an original. My 2nd choice was the Hopi carving—I really like the overall excellent and meticulous carving, especially the swirling detail. I felt caught between choosing a very traditionalist vs. a contemporary piece.
Alexander R. Youvella