Growing up in the tradition of most young Hopi
men, Frankie Howard was very
close to his extended clan family. He began to learn the art of Kachina doll
carving at a very young age, being taught by his older male relatives. They
would all gather together in a room specially designated as the carving
room. At these gatherings, Frankie and his relatives would sing songs and
tell stories as they all carved together.
In addition to
showing lots of talent at this age, Frankie was also recognized for his
natural playfulness and his youthful exuberance.
Frankie has grown up to be an extremely
talented Kachina Doll carver. Though he claims to have been born in the late
1950's, he's never really specific about his age. Known to all as a very
loving father, Frankie and his wife, Marie, live in Moenkopi near Tuba City,
Arizona.
