New Brooklyn Museum Exhibit Examines Hopi Kachina Dolls From Perspective of Recipients

Fifty-three Hopi kachina dolls are on display at Brooklyn Museum’s Center for Feminist Art as part of a new exhibit, “Hopi Kachina Dolls: Blessings for a Balanced World.”

The exhibit is the first to examine Hopi kachina dolls from the perspective of their recipients, Hopi girls and women. Divided into sections, it follows the Hopi woman from infancy to girlhood to adulthood, illustrating Hopi culture, creativity, and the value of intergenerational knowledge in the process. 

Kachina dolls, also known as tithu in Hopi, represent Katsinam—spirits that bring the rain and keep the world in balance. The dolls are made from cottonwood root and traditionally presented as gifts to infants and girls during ceremonies. 

Baskets, jewelry, and ceramics crafted by Hopi women are featured in the exhibit alongside the dolls. Guest curator Colleen Lucero, Hopi, organized the exhibit with Nancy Rosoff, Dare Turner, Yurok, and Grace Billingslea, all of Brooklyn Museum. 

“Hopi Kachina Dolls: Blessings for a Balanced World” opened on Oct. 2, 2026 and will close on June 27, 2027. Brooklyn Museum is scheduled to host a series of five events highlighting the exhibit. To learn more, click here.