Hotels open in Northern Arizona fairly frequently, but Clarkdale’s Taawaki Inn is remarkable for several reasons. For starters, the 44-room hotel, which opened about a year ago in Clarkdale, is the first hotel outside of the Hopi reservation that is operated by the Hopi Tribe Economic Development. The property is also right by the historic Tuzigoot National Monument. Finally, the hotel is dedicated to showcasing Hopi art. Each room features original Hopi art along with a hand-painted mural on the wall. A custom, colorful Sun Kachina window hangs high in the lobby. Behind the front desk is a hand-painted mural. Located off that lobby is an art gallery that exclusively showcases custom work crafted by Hopi artists.
The intention with the art was “to immerse guests into the culture of the Hopi and share the artwork and what their talents are, because some of the stuff that they do is just simply incredible, just amazing,” says Lori Reinhold, sales and catering manager of The Taawaki Inn. “This makes it more of a boutique-style hotel. Something that gives it some personality and originality.”
Guests can look forward to seeing a plethora of work at the fine art gallery. Admission is free, and the gallery is open to the public. The gallery features paintings, baskets, pottery, jewelry, Kachina dolls and woven belts. “It’s full of very beautiful, unique pieces, and it gives you a glimpse into the Hopi culture,” says Doreen England, an art gallery attendant. “We have a gallery set up so that as you’re walking around, you can read the different plates or plaques of information that we have about the artist and where they’re from and a little bit about the piece.” Each piece includes an artist’s bio too. Doreen estimates that about 20 artists are shown in the gallery at any given time. The Naha family – a renowned group of Hopi potters – is for sale. Like many galleries, this one will host events with artists. At past events, Ryon Polequaptewa played the flute and told a few stories. He also makes kachina dolls, which were available for sale. Filmer (Yoimasa) Kewanyama did a live painting in the gallery and answered attendees’ questions about the Hopi way of life. “It’s a wonderful glimpse into Hopi traditional and contemporary art,” says Doreen. “I think everybody should see it.” − Teresa K. Traverse
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