Cory Ahownewa is a Hopi artist from Hotevilla, Arizona, who practices the art of traditional Hopi katsina carving. He began carving at the age of 13, learning contemporary techniques from his uncles and stepfather, who gave him scraps of cottonwood to practice with. As his skills developed, Cory became increasingly drawn to traditional carving styles and credits artist and close family friend Edward Seechoma with helping guide his growth and understanding of the art form.

Cory draws inspiration from the Grand Canyon, the landscape, and his annual visits to the kiva, where he continues to deepen his understanding of katsinam and their cultural meaning. His work is rooted in natural materials—from the cottonwood he gathers along the Colorado River to the natural pigments he uses to bring each carving to life.

For Cory, carving is more than an artistic practice. He credits his journey as an artist with transforming his life and strengthening his connections to his family, culture, and community.

Cultural Demonstrator Application

Are you interested in being a Cultural Demonstrator at a future time? Please read over the information and submit an application and artist biography.

The completed forms should be emailed to: GLCA_Tribal_Affairs@nps.gov