Sikuyva Dawavendewa

I was born and raised in Tuba City, AZ, but, I am from the lower village of Munqapi. I am full-blooded Hopi and of the Rattlesnake clan, Tsu’wungwa. For about 2 years I have been to different art markets, attending shows at Heard Museum, Santa Fe and Autry Museum. I have been doing art for as long as I can remember. I am continuing to thrive and grow, not only as an artist, but as a person. I just want to inspire more future artists, like many more before me have done.

The Kiipok Katsinam are a distinct group that appear alongside the Tsutskut (clowns) during Tiikive ceremonies. While the clowns represent the human journey from misbehavior to understanding and respect, the Kiipok Katsinam reinforce the moral principles of the Hopi way of life. They serve as guides and enforcers, reminding both clowns and community members to stay on the right path. Some Kiipok join in the clowns’ antics, while others act as authoritative figures who discipline the clowns, correct their behavior, and ultimately purify both them and the people through symbolic “war.”