The Journey
The journey of my life has taken me across different landscapes countries and communities, each holding a significant place in my heart. Despite the changes, my connection to my roots remained strong and The importance of home and community shapes my identity and sense of belonging.
My favorite items to create are Katsina dolls. Katsina dolls are sacred objects in Hopi culture, representing spirit beings that bring rain, fertility, and other blessings to the community. Each doll is carved from cottonwood roots by burning them with a wood burner, and painting them with paints and natural pigments, showcasing the intricate detail and care I put into my work. I find inspiration from nature while carving Katsina dolls. The chirping birds and rustling wind are part of the spiritual medicine that goes into my pieces. I keep a deep connection to the environment, returning wood shavings and respecting the earth by filling voids created by digging with dirt. Mindfulness towards nature not only enhances my work, but also reflects a sense of gratitude for the world around us. My Eagle Katsina doll won 2nd place at the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial; a significant achievement, as it is one of the oldest and most respected Native American art shows in the United States.
Each handcrafted piece is a labor of love. When customers purchase my crafts, they are not just acquiring an item; they are taking home a piece of my soul, a fragment of my story. By sharing my creations with the world, I hope that I am spreading happiness and joy to those who appreciate the artistry and effort that goes into each piece.
About the Indigenous Artisans Collective
Etsy and Nest are proud to support the Indigenous Artisans Collective, the latest cohort within the Etsy Uplift Makers Program, featuring shops from Indigenous makers affiliated with 10 Indigenous groups across the United States and the First Nations of Canada.
Many makers practice craft skills inspired by or passed down from family and community mentors. Product collections include meticulously handcrafted home goods, jewelry, and other accessories in honor of the maker’s culture and heritage. Among many Indigenous communities, traditional handcraft continues to hold significant cultural value and economic opportunity.
Through the Uplift Makers: Indigenous Artisans Collective, Etsy, and Nest are helping to create digital market access and economic opportunities for Indigenous makers while also providing artisans with resources and tools to help run a successful online business. From expert-led digital marketing training, onboarding support, and a custom resource library, the program delivers a comprehensive suite of programming to participants. Additionally, the program addresses key barriers new business owners face, such as providing professional photography to capture the creative content needed to showcase their talent and reach new customers in today’s digital era.