Kathleen Wall Jemez Koshare Mask 
- Sold Winning Bid: $220.00
- 47 Bid(s) View Bid History
- High Bidder: mfrederich
Kathleen Wall Jemez Koshare Mask
- Artist: Kathleen Wall
- Tribal Affiliation: Jemez
- Title: Koshare Mask
- Medium: Red clay and corn husk
- Signature: Signed
This Koshare Mask by Kathleen Wall showcases her exceptional skill in hand-sculpting and painting. The mask is crafted from red clay, adorned with traditional corn husk elements. The vibrant and expressive features of the mask reflect the joyful and whimsical spirit of the Koshare clowns from Pueblo culture.
Condition:
- Good - note that upon close inspection, there is light finish wear and chipped paint in isolated areas.
Size:
- Pottery Piece: 13" x 7.5" x 4"
- Overall: 23" x 7.5" x 4"
- A soup can is included in the images for scale.
The Koshare clowns hold a significant place in Pueblo culture, particularly among the Hopi and other Puebloan tribes of the Southwestern United States. These sacred clowns are crucial in various ceremonies and festivals, embodying a blend of humor, wisdom, and sacredness. They are often seen as mediators between the human and spirit worlds, using humor and satire to teach moral lessons and cultural values.
The Koshare embody the dual nature of existence, combining the sacred and the profane, joy and seriousness. This duality reflects the Pueblo belief in the balance necessary in life and the universe. They are involved in rituals of renewal and transformation, facilitating the release of tension and the renewal of social and spiritual bonds within the community.
Artist Biography:
Kathleen Wall, a distinguished potter from Jemez Pueblo, New Mexico, has been creating art since she was 17. Raised in a family of talented ceramic artists, including her grandmother Cari Loretto and mother Fannie, Kathleen's work is deeply rooted in her cultural heritage. She received formal training at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, which has significantly influenced her artistic development.
Wall's art is celebrated for its vibrant colors, expressive forms, and cultural depth. Her pieces often depict Koshare clowns, who are integral to Pueblo ceremonies and celebrations, symbolizing joy, fertility, and the human connection to the natural world. Kathleen's masks and sculptures are highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts for their unique beauty and cultural authenticity.
Her work has been featured in numerous exhibitions and publications, highlighting her contributions to contemporary Native American art. Kathleen continues to create from her studio at Jemez Pueblo, where she draws inspiration from her rich cultural heritage and the natural beauty of New Mexico. Her dedication to preserving and celebrating Pueblo culture through her art is evident in every piece she creates.