Event
Zuni artisans demonstrate their crafts at Desert View's outdoor Visitor Center.
Fee:
Free.Repeating Event
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Type of Event
Description
Watch master craftsmen at work this week as Desert View's Cultural Demonstration Program resumes for the 2022 season.
Meet Zuni fetish carver Jimmy Yawakia, and Zuni inlay jeweler Duran Gasper, at the outdoor visitor center, Thursday June 2, and Friday, June 3, from 9 am to 4 pm.
The artisans will be demonstrating under the large shade structure just beyond the north end of the main parking lot, and within the paved concourse. In addition, park rangers are staffing an information desk at the same location, from 9 am to 4 pm.
Duran Gasper is a Zuni Jeweler. He learned cluster work from his mother, Rose Gasper and learned inlay from his brother, Arnie. Over the years he has perfected his craft and is now one of the finest Native American jewelers specializing in pieces with stone inlay and sterling silver channel inlay. His work is beautiful with its complexity and perfection.
Zuni fetish carver Jimmy Yawakia says his fetishes are "his children," and he can talk quite specifically about the meaning of each fetish he has carved. He thinks deeply about the stone and its meaning, and through a spiritual synergy with his materials, which often involves praying with the material, he creates a carving which evokes the spiritual essence of the animal.
- The Cultural Demonstration program provides an opportunity for visitors and community members to interact with tribal artisans from Grand Canyon's traditionally associated tribes - and for them to share their history and crafts, along with the skills, knowledge, and efforts involved in creating each craft.
- This series is made possible with grants from Grand Canyon Conservancy and ArtPlace America.
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Reservation or Registration: No
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NPS Photos
NPS/ M Quinn