Book Fred Kabotie Hopi Indian Artist An Autobiography

an autobiography told with Bill Belknap

Museum of Northern Arizona

1977

First Edition

Hardcover

149, illustrated

0-87358-164-4

Excellent condition except tears in the book jacket

From the inside cover: "The life of Fred Kabotie has been one of dedication to the artistic traditions of the Hopi.  Through his exquisite paintings he has introduced international audiences to the beauty of Hopi legends and ceremonies.  As a Guggenheim fellow Kabotie sought roots of Hopi symbolism in ancient cultures.  As a teacher on the Hopi mesas, he inspired pride in and continuity of his students’ great artistic heritage.  And as a founder and the current president of the Hopi Cultural Center, he has helped to insure the preservation of traditional crafts and encourage innovations in Hopi art, bringing worldwide admiration to his people.

This autobiography, a candid narrative rich with reflections on his experiences from early childhood to the present, and on the Hopi way of life and recent history, portrays the spirit of Kabotie as an artist, Hopi, and individual.  His story is highlighted with thirty-three color plates of his finest works which helped to establish his reputation is ‘the father of Hopi art.’  His paintings of ceremonies, kachinas, and scenes from Hopi legends are lasting tributes to his talent and reflect the strength and natural harmony of Hopi philosophy.

With longtime friend Bill Belknap, Kabotie relates his life as he views the world, as an unfolding progression of days and events.  It is a delightful narrative, full of Kabotie’s characteristic sensitivity, gentle humor, and lack of pretention.  Like his paintings, it expresses the soul of one who sees beauty in his world and strives to preserve it.”

You'll fall in love with this book - the paintings, the photographs, and the stories will captivate you! It's NOT just for Native American painting enthusiasts. If you love Hopi jewelry and culture, this will enchant you!