 |
Kokopelli Ceremonies by Stephen W. Hill
Book Summary InformationAuthor: Stephen W. Hill Illustrator: Robert B. Montoya Edition: Paperback Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published) Published: 1995-01 ISBN: 1885772068 Number of pages: 64 Publisher: Kiva
Book Reviews of Kokopelli CeremoniesBook Review: Unique... Summary: 5 Stars
I purchased this based on what the other reviewers were saying about it, and each of their reviews appear to be spot on for what they are describing about the book. This is the kind of book that one has to visit several time to gain full appreciation for its content and messages. It is an intellectual as well as a visual pursuit.
The book's text and design are quiet nice, so it is a comfortable as well as informative read. Eyeglass wearers should have no trouble reading the passages or studying the images, which are all clearly rendered and well-spaced. I like the little dancing Kokopelli decorative bars at the top of each primary page. They give the book a sprinkle of light-hearted joy and sense of movement.
Kokopelli Ceremonies contains the following sections:
Introduction: Discusses the author's inspirations for his book and his passion for the "archetypal" ancient flute player, a trickster hero that captures humanity--even today.
Wellsprings of Creativity: Discusses the author's views about the creative human urge, Western culture, and Native American Art. He also ponders the vast appeal of Native American themes.
The Enigma of Kokopelli: Discusses the universal recognition of the flute-player in various cultures and his possible interpretations. The author describes Kokopelli's roles as a trader, gambler, minstrel, hunter, warrior, god, priest, sacred musician, medicine man, insect, fertility symbol, and petroglyphic cultural sign.
Robert Montoya, Pueblo Painter: Introduces the artist, his background and his influences. The author discusses his own collection of the artist's efforts.
Spirituality in the Painting of Robert B. Montoya: Discusses the artist's works and favored themes. The section includes some interesting images like "Deer Night Sky" and "Emergence from Blue Lake." My favorite piece from this section is "We See Yet Do Not Understand," which depicts humanity's search for cosmic understanding, spiritual growth, universal connections, balance, and harmony. I love the rain bird pottery bowl that is in the center of this image and the ladder that stretches to the heavens. Actually, the more you look into this image, the more you can see and feel. [This painting could be the foundation an interesting class discussion in a college humanities and / or psychology class.]
Kokopelli Ceremonies: Offers an interesting collection of pictures to ponder and guiding commentary to consider. My favorites are "Kokopell's Sunrise Song," Kokopelli's Gift to the Sun," "Kokopelli's Sacred Prayers," and "Arrow Priest."
A Kokopelli Bibliography: Offers a huge selection of resources for further exploration.
About the Author & About the Illustrator: More information about this book and its creators.
Overall, I am pleased with the book. The experience of it is refreshing, and I will definitely keep it in my library for future gazing and enjoyment.
|
 |
|
|
|