Alfred Lomahquahu
1999 Dubin Fellow
Alfred was born at Keams Canyon, Arizona, and was raised in the small
Hopi village of Bacavi, high atop Third Mesa. He learned early the wisdom
of accepting and following his elder’s counsel. Advice given him by one
grandfather, a Hopi medicine man, to travel and gain new experiences, was
particularly influential in the shaping of Alfred’s life and his
principles.
As a direct result of that advice, he departed
his homeland and attended a boarding school in Riverside, California.
After completion of his formal education, Alfred joined the Marines, and
for the next six years, he traveled extensively. As he observed other
cultures, Alfred developed a deeper appreciation for the Hopi’s simple
way of life.
A short while after his return to the States, an
unfinished Kachina was given to him to complete. 
His
first Kachina was so well received that he decided to pursue carving as
his vocation. From that point, Alfred’s destiny became clear. Today, his
Kachinas are still well received and admired as evidenced by his numerous
awards.
At times, criticized for his use of power tools
when applying finishing touches to his Kachinas, Alfred replies, "If
you want to accomplish anything, you have to use every available
means." In each of his dolls, the spiritual element is always
present. Coupled with that element, Alfred does his utmost to give good
form and outstanding physical artistry to each finished piece. He is
always hopeful that each of his Kachinas will eventually grace a home
where good feelings abound, for the underlying purpose of the Kachina is
to promote and insure harmony.
Ten hour days are the norm for Alfred, but he
enjoys his "work" and is happy with it.
Read about the IARC Kachina
Convocation.
