Raymond Chee, Hopi Pueblo Carver

Award winning artist Ray Chee (b. 1961), of Navajo Nation and Hopi Pueblo heritage, creates powerful sculptures from traditional Hopi knife-carved cottonwood root, featuring both Hopi Katsinam and Navajo themes. His work, often collaborative with his brother Duwayne and nephew Duwayne Jr., explores Native cultural history with significant artistic and cultural depth.

A self-taught wood carver, Chee's transition from welding, following an accident, has resulted in sculptures renowned for their anatomy, movement, and detail. His work, spanning Native American figures and mythology, reflects his respect for tradition and storytelling. His talent is recognized in collections like the Schingoethe Center Museum and with a Best of Class award at the 2021 Santa Fe Indian Market.

TAGS: Katsina Dolls, Hopi Pueblo, Hopi Kachina Dolls, Diné of the Navajo Nation, Apache Tribe