Helen Naha facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Helen Naha
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Helen Naha in her home decorating a pot in her Awatovi Star pattern
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| Born | 1922 Polacca, Arizona
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| Died | 1993 (aged 70–71) |
| Nationality | American |
| Known for | Pottery |
| Spouse(s) | Archie Naha |
Helen Naha (1922–1993) was a very important Hopi potter. She was the leader of a family known for making beautiful pottery.
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About Helen Naha
Helen Naha was the daughter-in-law of Paqua Naha. Paqua Naha was also a famous potter, known as the first "Frog Woman." Helen was married to Paqua's son, Archie.
Helen mostly taught herself how to make pottery. She learned by following the style of her mother-in-law, Paqua Naha. She also learned from her sister-in-law, Joy Navasie, who was known as the second "Frog Woman."
Her Unique Pottery Style
Helen Naha's pottery often featured designs from old Awatovi ruins. These ruins are ancient places near the Hopi lands. She would find pieces of old pottery and use their patterns for her own work.
Her special style was pottery that was very smooth and shiny. She made her pots by hand, coiling clay ropes on top of each other. Then, she covered them with a white liquid clay called "slip." She added black and red decorations. Helen often polished the inside of her pots too, not just the outside.
The Feather Woman
Helen Naha signed her pottery with a special symbol. This symbol looked like a feather. Because of this, many people who collected her art called her "Feather Woman."
Helen's artistic talent was passed down in her family. Both of her daughters, Sylvia and Rainy (Rainell), became well-known potters. Her granddaughter, Tyra Naha, is also a famous potter today.
Her Legacy and Recognition
Helen Naha's pottery is very valuable. Today, her medium to larger pots can sell for thousands of dollars.
She received a special honor from the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts. They created the Helen Naha Memorial Award. This award celebrates excellent traditional Hopi pottery. It helps keep her memory and her beautiful art alive.
Helen Naha was also a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Images for kids
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Helen Naha decorating a pot
