David McCarthy (American, b. 1950), Kuwanlelenta (Creating a Beautiful World of Splendor)

1989, mixed media sculpture including feathers, shark's teeth, quills, wood, thread, and paper mounted to white painted wood backing in plexiglass shadow box frame, signed with date and title to verso.

24 3/4 x 24 5/8 x 2 3/4 in.

"Kuwanlelenta" is a Hopi name meaning "to make beautiful surroundings" and is also the name of the God of the Hopi Sunflower Clan. Sunflowers have deep significance to the Hopi tribe. Seen as living beings brought to us by the Gods, sunflowers indicate femininity, motherhood, fertility, and beauty.

McCarthy's Kuwanlelenta is just one example of his vibrant and intricate mixed media sculptures that utilize organic materials like bird feathers, animal fur, porcupine quills, carved wood, and hand-made paper. Currently living and working in New Mexico, McCarthy's pieces and titles nod to the art and culture of Southwestern Native American tribes, including the Hopi, from which he draws inspiration.

Good estate condition.