Aaron J. Fredericks
Koshari Clown
24 1/4"
H with 1 1/2" base
"Koshari or Koyala is
the name of a Rio Grande clown that is often seen on the Hopi
Mesas. The Hopis very frequently call this clown the Hano or
Tewa clown as the Tewa of that village seem to have introduced
this personage to the Hopi mesas.
These clowns are considered
to be the fathers of the kachinas. They behave in the usual manner
of pueblo clowns, engaging in loud and boisterous conversation,
immoderate actions, and gluttony.
They are often drummers for
other dances."
- Barton Wright, Kachinas: a Hopi
Artist's Documentary (239)
The always mischievous and
sometimes gluttonous Koshari are perfect satire of normal village
life. Their facial features, posture, and body movements tell
us so much about the attitude of life in the Hopi plaza.
Aaron J. Fredericks is a younger carver whose work has rapidly
reached the top of its category. He consistently wins Best of
Class at juried competitions including Santa Fe's Indian Market,
the Heard Museum's Indian Art Show, and others. His work can
be found in the most discriminating collections.
He is a traditional carver
from the village of Shungopavi at Second Mesa. He enjoys working
on his dolls, and gets a lot of inspiration from his cultural
heritage. His wife also encourages his work and shares in the
creative process by suggesting colorful themes seen throughout
his work.
