For almost 20 years, the Museum has partnered with Southern Methodist University faculty on important paleontological work: from excavating bones and fossils at sites in Texas to preparing the fossils for research and exhibitions.
KACHINAS
Collections Gallery
Imagine beautiful colors whirling and dancing before you as Kachina spirits come to your village! Kachinas represent the various spirits of the Hopi belief, who visit Acoma during specific times of the year according to their religious calendar. Astronomical events of the solstices and equinoxes determine the particular ceremonies and which Kachina spirits arrive in the village.
Given to Hopi children as reminders of their spirits, these amazing teaching tools instruct the Hopi about proper behavior and beliefs, namely the “Hopi Way.” They are generally kept in the home even after they have surpassed their use as a teaching tool for children. Hopi artist Emil Pooley carved the Kachinas on display, and his children decorated them with bold and bright colors, feathers, and with natural objects in their hands. The Kachinas represent the more traditional form of the art.
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