Walter Howato Hopi Koshare Katsina Doll

Looking Back: The Traditional Revival Art of Walter Howato

Over the last century, Hopi Katsina carvings evolved from simple, flat wooden figures into intricate, anatomically precise sculptures. However, a handful of visionary artists — most notably the late Walter Howato (1921-2003) of First Mesa — chose to look backward rather than forward, sparking an "Old Style" revival.

The Artwork: A Koshare (Hano Clown) Carving

This striking Koshare (Hano Clown) carving is a pure testament to Howato's artistic philosophy. Rather than chasing photographic realism, its minimalist design captures the raw, essential spirit of the figure.

To honor the sacred dolls of his ancestors, Howato intentionally sought out cottonwood roots with natural imperfections and gently rubbed the pigment to create a "faux-antique" patina. This technique mirrored the beautifully cracked, faded dolls he grew up with in his mother's home — objects that aged naturally as they were cherished over generations.

While some of Howato's depictions of Hopi deities are abstract, this particular carving is instantly recognizable as the iconic Koshare. It features his signature rubbed-paint finish, though uniquely executed on an exceptionally smooth, solid piece of wood that showcases a different side of his material selection.

An Extraordinary Life

Howato's life journey was as colorful as his art:

• The 1930s: Formed his artistic foundation at the prestigious Santa Fe Indian School.

• The California Years: Moved to Los Angeles, where he worked for Walt Disney Studios, famously representing Indigenous culture during the early days of Disneyland.

• The Collaborations: Conducted high-end interior design work alongside legendary Navajo artist R.C. Gorman.

• The Return to Tradition: After a stint helping to construct the Glen Canyon Dam, Howato returned to First Mesa in his forties. He deliberately put down modern power tools, picked up a simple pocketknife, and dedicated the rest of his life to pioneering the traditional revival aesthetic.

A Note on Gallery Provenance

In his later years, Walter lived in Denver, Colorado, and would frequently make the drive down to Albuquerque to sell his latest creations to Adobe Gallery. Getting to know Walter and his vibrant, memorable personality was an absolute privilege. We proudly acquired many of his carvings over the decades, and this piece stands as a beautiful reminder of his legacy.

Acquisition & Inquiries

Walter Howato's pocketknife-carved figures are highly sought by collectors who appreciate the soul of the traditional style. Please contact the gallery for additional details on this exceptional piece.

What is a Kachina?

Condition: this Walter Howato Hopi Koshare Katsina Doll is in good condition.

Reference and Recommended Reading: Hopi Katsina: 1,600 Artist Biographies by Gregory and Angie Schaaf. 

TAGS: Hopi Pueblo, R.C. Gorman, San Ildefonso Pueblo, Katsina dolls, Jimmy Koots, Romando Vigil, Tse Ye Mu, Manfred Susunkewa, Jimmy Kewanwytewa (Jimmy K), Walter Howato