Kevin Horace Quannie

Kevin Horace Quannie, a contemporary artist of Hopi descent, originates from Kykotsmovi village. His parents, Emerson Horace Jr. and Roselyn Tsinnie Horace, are both retired educators from Arizona State University, having completed their studies in the 1980s. Since that time, Kevin has dedicated himself to the art of kachina sculpture, a craft he has honed since 1980.

Residing in Kykotsmovi, on the Hopi reservation, Kevin’s role as a tribal ranger necessitated long hours and modest compensation. During this period, while managing a small family art gallery, he developed a profound interest in Hopi art. Kachina doll carving emerged as a significant occupation for him, drawing inspiration from renowned kachina doll carvers such as Neil David, Sr. and Lowell Talashoma, Sr.

Kevin specializes in carving contemporary kachina dolls using cottonwood roots, elevating his work beyond traditional methods. Some of his creations have been transformed into bronze sculptures, capturing the intricate beauty and textures of the natural grains from the original cottonwood root pieces. In recent years, Kevin has incorporated feathers, originally woodburned individually, into his bronze sculptures, resulting in shimmering gold and amber hues.

In addition to his work in kachina doll carving, Kevin has ventured into painting traditional and contemporary images on canvas.

Kevin firmly believes that his artistic journey was an ethereal choice, enabling him to express his innermost emotions through his creations. What continues to inspire and motivate him as an artisan is the knowledge that his sculptures, gold or silver jewelry, and oil paintings will bring pride to those who choose to add his art to their collections.