Zuni Artist Resource Team - ZART

Juana Homer: Zuni Stone, Bear with Bundle

The bear itself is carved in a traditional, compact form—broad-shouldered, low to the ground, with strong limbs and a slightly bowed head. Its posture suggests quiet strength and determination, the enduring presence of a guardian or protector. The rounded back and softly detailed body convey both physical power and spiritual weight, characteristic of the bear as a totem of healing, courage, and introspection. Set into the bear’s face are turquoise eyes, bright and full of life. Their cool blue color contrasts beautifully with the warm tan stone, lending the bear a sense of awareness and spiritual vitality. The eyes give it presence—watchful, wise, and enduring. On the bear’s back rests a pink mussel shell arrowhead, delicately shaped and gently iridescent. The pink tones shimmer subtly in the light, ranging from soft rose to pale coral, and its placement on the bear’s back is rich with meaning. In Zuni tradition, the arrowhead symbolizes protection and the bear’s role as a healing animal, while the shell’s pink hue adds a layer of softness, nurturing, and emotional depth.

Bear (Anshe): Bear was the principal animal for the Pueblo People and they are the most prevalent subject of Zuni fetishes. Bear fetishes are used for healing, protection, strength, journeying, mothering, hunting and gathering. Bear‚ hibernation reminds us of the value of going within.

Available for purchase at www.zarteam.org or direct link below.
https://www.zarteam.org/products/juana-homer-zuni-stone-bear-with-bundle

Elton Kaamasee: Antler, Quail

A detailed quail delicately carved from natural antler perches gracefully atop a rustic tree stump, both shaped from the same piece of antler. The carving highlights the organic textures and warm cream-to-brown tones of the material, giving the piece a natural and earthy character. The quail’s smooth turquoise eyes provide a vibrant contrast against the antler, bringing life and spirit to the carving. Fine feather details and the natural curves of the antler add depth and movement, while the stump base enhances the woodland feel of the piece.

Available for purchase at www.zarteam.org or direct link below.
https://www.zarteam.org/products/elton-kaamasee-antler-quail-zuni

Darrell Westika: Sand Stone, Bear with Bundle

A powerful bear carved from warm sandstone stands with a grounded and protective presence, showcasing the natural earthy tones and soft textures of the stone. Its polished turquoise eyes bring a striking contrast to the matte sandstone, giving the carving a sense of wisdom and spirit. Resting along the bear’s back is a serpentine arrowhead, symbolizing life, strength, guidance, and protection. The green hues of the serpentine complement the turquoise accents beautifully, creating a balanced blend of natural colors inspired by traditional Native artistry. The carving embodies endurance, courage, and a strong connection to the earth.

Bear (Anshe): Bear was the principal animal for the Pueblo People and they are the most prevalent subject of Zuni fetishes. Bear fetishes are used for healing, protection, strength, journeying, mothering, hunting and gathering. Bear‚ hibernation reminds us of the value of going within.

Available for purchase at www.zarteam.org or direct link below.
https://www.zarteam.org/products/darrell-westika-sandstone-bear-with-bundle-zuni

Marilyn Allapowa: Black Velvet, Pink/Red Beaded Pin Cushion

The pin cushion's muted color palette provides an elegant backdrop that accentuates the brilliance of each bead. The level of detail in this piece is outstanding; it palpably conveys the devotion, skill, and dedication embraced by Allapowa to create such an exquisite work of art. Moreover, her expert embroidery techniques ensure the strength and longevity of this heirloom-quality pin cushion. Each bead serves as a testament to the rich cultural traditions passed down through generations, making this artifact not only visually stunning but also symbolically significant—preserving history through handcrafted beauty.

Available for purchase at www.zarteam.org or direct link below
https://www.zarteam.org/products/marilyn-allapowa-black-velvet-pink-red-beaded-pin-cushion

Carlos Laate: Clay Pottery, Corn Meal Bowl

The surface is smooth yet retains the subtle texture of its handmade origin, grounding it in tradition.

Encircling the exterior are finely painted dragonfly designs, each one evenly spaced and thoughtfully rendered. Their elongated bodies and delicate wings stretch outward in symmetrical patterns, symbolizing water, movement, and renewal. The dragonflies seem to hover in quiet rhythm around the bowl, bringing a sense of life and motion to the still clay.

Between each set of dragonflies, three tadpoles are depicted swimming upward along the inside of the bowl. Their rounded forms and trailing tails create a gentle sense of flow, reinforcing the theme of growth and transformation. Positioned in upward movement, they evoke progression, life cycles, and the connection between water and sustenance.

Available for purchase at www.zarteam.org or direct link below
https://www.zarteam.org/products/carlos-laate-clay-pottery-corn-meal-bowl

Kenric Laiwekate: Calcite, Bear

A beautifully carved horse emerges from warm tan calcite, its soft, creamy hues accented by subtle natural banding that gives the piece depth and life. The stone’s smooth, polished surface reflects light gently, enhancing the organic warmth of the material.

Its eyes are set with vibrant turquoise, standing out strikingly against the neutral body. The heartline symbolizes life and breath, connecting the heart to the body in a continuous flow of life and meaning.

Every curve—from the arch of its neck to the sturdy stance of its legs—feels intentional, honoring both the natural beauty of the calcite and the cultural significance behind the design.

Bear (Anshe): Bear was the principal animal for the Pueblo People and they are the most prevalent subject of Zuni fetishes. Bear fetishes are used for healing, protection, strength, journeying, mothering, hunting and gathering. Bear‚ hibernation reminds us of the value of going within.

Available for purchase at www.zarteam.org or direct link below
https://www.zarteam.org/products/kenric-laiwekate-calcite-bear-w-turq-heartline-zuni

The Zuni Artist Resource Team (ZART), supported by The Keshi Foundation Public Nonprofit, equips Zuni artists with essential tools—like photography training, e-commerce platforms, and broadband access—to share their work with the world. Your donation helps us create sustainable opportunities for artists and preserve their cultural heritage.

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