Keith Torres
Badger
16 1/2"
H with 2 1/4" base
"There are two types
of Badger Kachinas: the old Hopi Badger Kachina and a more recent
import from the Rio Grande. The old Hopi Badger was a curing
kachina that the Honani clan brought from the ancient village
of Kisiwu. Prayers for the growth of healing herbs are given
to him."
"In recent years another
type of Badger Kachina has made his appearance, but it is not
yet known whether this one serves the same function or not."
- Barton Wright, Kachinas: a Hopi
Artist's Documentary (115)
This unique piece was created
by the talented and well-known artist, Keith Torres. His attention
to detail, and the life-like realism of his work is what sets
his pieces apart. Another
notable aspect of his work is the natural characteristics of
the wood which are allowed to show through the paint work.
The anatomy and proportion
of Keith's work is always impressive. The hands have been carefuly
detailed, and the arms, legs and shoulders are all done appropriately.
Keith A. Torres is from First
Mesa. He is of the Coyote and Fire Clans. He learned to carve
from his uncle, Edward Poleahla, and has since won awards for
his carving such as First Place in 1996 at the Gallup Ceremonial.
He is listed in Erik Bromberg's
The Hopi Approach to the Art of KACHINA DOLL CARVING.
Keith is an exceptional carver who has a wonderful eye for detail
along with the skill and ability to create truly important works
of art through his carving.